Rice grass (Xerochloa laniflora) in the Western Australian rangelands

Page last updated: Wednesday, 7 July 2021 - 8:29am

Please note: This content may be out of date and is currently under review.

Rice grass (Xerochloa laniflora) is one of many plant species found in the Western Australian rangelands. This page provides a summary of the plant's value for pastoralism. Pastoral lessees and station managers can use this information to assess pasture condition and trend.

Indicator value

Rice grass is an intermediate species. Where dominant, it may indicate poor pasture condition.

Forage value

Young rice grass is moderately palatable to livestock and the grain is also palatable.

Habitat

Claypan soils, heavy soils in wet areas.

General description

Rice grass is an erect annual or short-lived perennial grass that can grow to 30cm tall. Stems are smooth and slender. The leaf blades are rolled, narrow and up to 10cm long. The seed heads appear woolly and are 5–15cm long on a single spike. Rice grass flowers from February to May.

Contact information

Matthew Fletcher
+61 (0)8 9166 4019
Kath Ryan
+61 (0)8 9166 4015

Rice grass (Xerochloa laniflora) in the Western Australian rangelands

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