There has been a lot of talk about native grass over the years. We are becoming more familiar with Kangaroo grass and Wallaby grass as native grasses that can provide great groundcover and feed for stock. We hear less about some of our native herbs.
Corrugated Sida (Sida corrugata Lindl.) is a prostrate sprawling herb that often goes unnoticed and can be mistaken for a weed. It has a big role to play in native grassland, and its value should not be underestimated.
It has a role to play in helping to prevents soil erosion and improve water retention. It stabilises the soil. It has a trailing habit, and a very strong deep taproot so can act as a great ground cover. The strong taproot assists with its high drought tolerance and its ability to withstand quite heavy grazing. It is considered a palatable fodder for stock.
Being a great weed competitor, it assists in natural weed management, so less chemical control is required.
Not only is Sida good for soils and weed control it also provides great habitat for insects and birds. It has a vibrant little yellow flower which makes it valuable in landscaping, adding to the biodiversity of a region.
This species adapts to a wide range of soil types including sandy and clay soil types so will grow just about anywhere.
If that wasn’t enough it is often noted as a traditional medicine.
So next time you’re walking through a native grass area keep an eye out for Sida corrugata.
For more images and details on description and location click on the links below.
Author: Kathy Tenison
