SafePlants

Australian Fingergrass (Chloris truncata)

Chloris truncata is known by several common names, including Australian fingergrass, windmill grass, Australian windmill grass, and simply windmill grass (particularly within Australia).

Windmill grass can be either an annual or short-term perennial grass. It's recognized for its ability to thrive even in lower-quality soils.

Considerations for Pets

• Windmill grass is often found in pastures for grazing animals.

Considerations for Children

• Windmill grass is known to be a summer active grass found throughout Australia.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chloris truncata
• Family: Not explicitly mentioned in the provided text.
• Synonyms: The text also mentions Chloris ventricosa as Australian windmill grass and curly windmill grass (Enteropogon acicularis).

Distribution and Habitat

• Chloris truncata is native to Australia and can be found in temperate mainland areas, extending to central regions.
• It grows in Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, parts of Queensland, and throughout New South Wales (except for certain areas).

Ecological Role

• In the Western Australian wheatbelt, windmill grass is considered the tenth most common summer weed.
• As a weed, it can host pests and diseases and deplete soil moisture that would otherwise benefit crops.
• It's noted as a growing problem weed in agricultural systems across Australia, especially in no-till farming.

Morphological Characteristics

• Windmill grass typically forms a rounded tussock less than 50 cm tall.
• It's described as an erect, short, tufted, hairless grass.
• The seed head features 5-13 spikes radiating from the stem, resembling a windmill.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Windmill grass responds positively to both increased soil fertility and grazing.

Quirky Facts

• The name "windmill grass" comes from the appearance of its seed heads, which have spikes radiating from the stem resembling the blades of a windmill.
• It thrives in lower quality soils

Further Information

• Information can be found at FloraBase - the Western Australian Flora.
• ResearchGate features studies on the emergence, survival, biomass production, and seed production of Chloris truncata.
• The Australian Plant Census provides data on Chloris truncata.