Themeda triandra as a perennial seed crop in south-eastern Australia: What are the agronomic possibilities and constraints, and future research needs?

Abstract

The development of native perennial seed crops is an area of increasing interest in Australia. Key reasons for this include potential production of high-value seed for land restoration and emerging niche food markets, the cultural significance that native plants hold for Aboriginal people, reduced farm input costs in comparison to annual seed crop production and potential environmental benefits from diversified agricultural systems. One species of interest is Themeda triandra, a C4 perennial tussock grass that dominated many grasslands and grassy woodlands across Australia prior to European invasion. This review aims to inform those seeking to grow T. triandra as a seed crop in south-eastern..