Coarse-textured, loosely tufted perennial to 1 m tall. Leaf rolled in bud. Leaf blade flat, softly hairy above and below, narrowed to a fine point, to 20 cm or more long, greyish-green. Ligule membranous, densely pubescent, 1-4 mm long. Sheath flattened, greyish-green and bright green with distinct pink veins, reflexed hairs. Inflorescence a long, condensed plume-like panicle (pinkish at first). Spikelets 2-flowered, the upper with a short, hooked awn, not or hardly protruding above the glumes; Aug.-Dec.

Africa and Eurasia

A pasture grass that is widely naturalised in cool temperate regions worldwide on roadsides, disturbed land and moist areas, all states except the Northern Territory. Considered too coarse for turf purposes.

 

H. mollis 'Albovariegatus' is also a useful ground cover.

Source: Spencer, R.; Aldous, D.; Stajsic, V.; McGeary, D (2005). Poaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 5. Flowering plants. Monocotyledons. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.