Saltwater couch (Sporobolus virginicus) in the Western Australian rangelands

Page last updated: Wednesday, 7 July 2021 - 8:54am

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Saltwater couch (Sporobolus virginicus) 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

Where dominant, saltwater couch (Sporobolus virginicus) is an indicator of good pasture condition. It decreases under heavy grazing pressure.

Forage value

Saltwater couch is highly palatable to livestock.

Habitat

Coastal plains.

General description

Saltwater couch is a creeping perennial grass that can grow to 30cm tall. New plants usually develop from runners or underground stems. The leaves are 2–10cm long, 1–2mm wide and are sharply pointed at the ends. The seed head is linear, 2–10cm long and 6–8mm wide on long stems.