Xanthorrhoea Australis [Grass Tree]
The flower spike has numerous small white flowers at the tip.
The nectar from the flower was extracted by soaking it in water to produce a
sweek drink. The sofwood from the flower spike was used in firemaking. Edible
grubs were ofen found at the base of the trunk. The seeds were crushed to make
folour and the shitish leaf bases were eaten raw or cooked. A gum or sap was
obtained from around the roots at ground level. It was softened in the heart of
a fire. It was then mixed with charcoal and used as a type of glue. This glue
was used to waterproof bags, adhere axe heads to handles and in making other
tools. Usually, kangaroo hide was used with glue to make the bond stronger.
Fish spears were made from the flower spikes.
The spikes were also used to rub together to make fire.
Source: "Mutooroo: Plants sued by Australian Aboriginal People" complied by Glenn Leiper and illustrated by Janet Hauser. p. 53