Grass tree: An iconic unique plant in Australia

The 2019–20 fire season in Australia has been catastrophic. More than 11 million hectares of forest and bush have been burned. Thousands of houses have been destroyed and residents forced to seek shelter elsewhere. Countless animals have been killed. The good news is that all the bushfires in New South Wales are now under control, bringing the terrible season nearer to a close.

But not all plants have been affected badly by the bushfires. Some grass trees are actually stimulated by fire. Bushfires can burn their foliage and blacken their trunks, but then they regrow and flower profusely.

Some grass trees are actually stimulated by fire. /VCG Photo

Grass trees are endemic to Australia. They are tough and beautiful and can thrive in poor soils. Some species can live for 350 to 450 years. But not all species of grass trees can tolerate fire, such as the grey grass tree which can be killed by hot fires.

Grass trees. /VCG Photo

The flowers of grass trees also look unique. They are arranged on a spear-like spike which can grow up to four meters. The flower produces a special nectar which not only attracts birds, but is also made into drinks by local people.

Grass trees. /VCG Photo

Although the iconic plant is called a grass tree, it's neither a grass nor a tree. The plant is in fact related to lilies. Their trunks are actually made of leaves.

Here are some photos of the wonderfully plant in Australia: