rhizomes, which forms large tussocks. Most of the year it is found in moist soil, often subject to periodic inundation. Once it is established, cutting grass is drought and wind tolerant. The flowering season is from spring through summer. Seed maturity can be predicted by the colour of the flower head, the bright brown immature fruits turning black at maturity. At this stage they are ready for use in food preparation. Gahnia grandis is resistant to disease caused by the water mould Phytophthora cinnamomi, but is highly flammable. Many species in the family Cyperaceae, including cutting grass, are considered important as food sources and safe habitat for native birds, such as the currawong, native insects, moths, and butterflies, such as the chaostola skipper (Antipodia chaostola leucophaea). The larvae of the choastola skipper feed nocturnally on Gahnia species, including Gahnia radula and Gahnia grandis. The butterfly plays a vital role in pollination. Many other insects also feed exclusively on Gahnia species. Cutting grass is dependent for seed dispersal on birds such as the currawong, which eat the fruit then regurgitate the partially-digested hard inner nut. One hypothesis is that germination is facilitated by contact with the birds' stomach acid, which weakens the tough seed coat. Cutting grass is also a key habitat species for the rare and threatened Burnie burrowing crayfish (Engaeus yabbimunna). Cultivation Its long, sharp-edged leaves and untidy appearance make cutting grass relatively unsuitable for horticulture. But the species is used for rehabilitation and the regeneration of vegetation as its hardiness and soil-retaining properties are useful in preventing soil erosion. Gahnia species in general are difficult to propagate. Seed germination is the best method, as plant division and transplantation gives limited results. Due to seed dormancy, seeds will not germinate earlier than 12 months after maturity. Seeds are best collected by cutting off seed heads at the base using secateurs then placing them to dry for several days on a groundsheet. Thrashing may be needed to dislodge the seeds, which should then be dry-stored for better conservation. References grandis Flora of New South Wales Flora of Tasmania Flora of Victoria (Australia) Poales of Australia Plants described in 1800 Taxa named by Jacques Labillardière