The grass is very palatable; it can be cultivated for hay production but its nutritive value is not high. Although it can withstand drought the grass is a low producer.

The grass is grown in marginal areas with rainfall of about 300 – 700 mm/yr. it can grow in soils with moderate to low fertility. However the soils should not be waterlogged. The grass is established from seeds stored at least 1½ to 2 years before planting to break dormancy.

The seeds are small so a well prepared fine seedbed is needed. The seeding rate is 1 – 2 kg/ha and seeds should be covered in a carrier (sand or sawdust) if planting is mechanical.