Greek stype – referring to the fibre obtained from Esparto Grass, S. tenacissima L.
See Austrostipa. Stipa does not occur naturally in Australia. Native Australian species formerly in Stipa have been transferred to Austrostipa. The feathery flower heads that are pinkish at first make this an attractive ornamental exotic grass. S. gigantea Link from south-western Europe is occasionally offered.
About 220 tropical and temperate species often from dry regions.
Vickery et al. (1986), Jacobs & Everett (1996).
Source: (2005). Poaceae. In: . Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 5. Flowering plants. Monocotyledons. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.
