Where “Spinifex” Comes From
Spinifex is a group of tough, spiky grasses that grow in clumps across the dry inland of Australia. It covers huge areas of desert and semi-arid country.
Aboriginal peoples have long used spinifex resin as a strong glue, for example to fix tools. The word “spinifex country” describes the dry red landscapes of the outback.
“The red desert was covered in spinifex.”
How Aussies Actually Use It
You’ll hear it in outback travel, geography and desert talk.
In Real Life
Spinifex is one of the classic plants of the red centre, forming round, spiky mounds in the sand. It’s adapted to extreme heat and long dry periods, and it gives shelter to many small animals and lizards. Hikers learn to wear long pants because the leaves are sharp. The grass is also a fuel for bushfires in the desert, and regrowth after rain is quick.
Quick Questions
Is spinifex a type of grass?
Yes. It’s a tough, spiky grass that grows in clumps in dry inland Australia.
What has spinifex been used for?
Aboriginal peoples have long used spinifex resin as a glue to fix tools and other items.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: SPIN-ih-fex.
In conversation:
- We drove through spinifex country.
- Spinifex is sharp on the legs.
- The ground was red sand and spinifex.
Good to know: Spinifex leaves are sharp and can scratch bare legs, so wear long pants and sturdy shoes when walking in spinifex country.
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