A series of trials in Taupo, Wairarapa, and Southland showed that 'Grasslands Maru' phalaris (Phalaris aquatica L.) was well suited to dry hill country. It yielded as well as or better than 'Grasslands Nui' ryegrass and resident swards on an annual basis, being particularly productive in winter, spring and summer. Its spread by rhizomes ensured good swards which remained productive even under set-stocking. Maru suppressed grass grub numbers and continued to produce well under grass grub attack. Responses to fertiliser were good, but withholding fertiliser did not suppress Maru to any greater extent than other pasture grasses. These trials have shown that the seasonal and annual yields of Maru can add flexibility and improved production to hill country farming. Keywords: 'Grasslands Maru phalaris. seasonal production, grass grub, fertiliser, persistence, shelter, hill country
