Spiny-Head Mat-Rush (Lomandra Longifolia)

Spiny-Head Mat-Rush is found throughout Australia except for in the Northern Territory and in Western Australia. This plant has long roots and is often used for erosion control and to stabilise riverbanks. Once pulled out, the white base of each leaf can be chewed which tastes somewhat like snow peas. Aboriginal people often ate these during long walks and they collected the seeds, which were pounded and made into flour or eaten whole. The leaves were used to weave baskets for carrying food as well as making traps and nets.