Poaceae
Hyperthelia dissolute
Yellow Thatching Grass · Mdembe
G
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This tufted perennial grass typically grows 1 to 3 metres tall, featuring erect, unbranched culms that are often yellow, partially covered by green sheaths. Its leaf blades are 15-30 cm long and up to 12 mm wide, sometimes turning purple or red-brown when dead. The inflorescence is a stiff, purplish-red panicle adorned with long, stiff, yellowish awns, measuring 5-10 cm in length.
Where it works in Kilifi
Well-suited for restoration projects and erosion control along the Kilifi coast, especially in sandy soils and disturbed areas, thriving in full sun. It is also found along riverbanks and in deciduous bushland and wooded grassland, at elevations from sea level up to 1,350 metres.
Growing notes
A fast-growing perennial that thrives in subtropical to tropical climates with annual rainfall exceeding 650 mm. Once established, it is notably fire-tolerant and can form dense stands due to its strong competitive nature, potentially inhibiting other grasses.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: theferns.info, feedipedia.org, zimbabweflora.co.zw, krugerpark.co.za, jstor.org, mozambiqueflora.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.