Heteropogon triticeus is a tropical, perennial tussock grass with a native distribution encompassing Tropical and Temperate Asia, Malesia and Northern and Eastern Australia. The plant grows to over 2 metres (6.6 ft) in height and is favoured in most environments by frequent burning. The plants develop characteristic dark seeds with a single long awn at one end and a sharp spike at the other. The awn becomes twisted when dry and straightens when moistened, and in combination with the spike is capable of drilling the seed into the soil.