AbstractThis study investigates the influence of gap width and turf type on the growth of planted seedlings of the Australian forbBulbine bulbosa(bulbine lily) and subsequent recruitment of this species from self‐sown seed. In a low‐productivity turf ofDanthonia setacea(bristly wallaby grass), plantedBulbineseedlings established satisfactorily in all gaps 50 mm wide or larger. In highly productive turfs ofFestuca arundinacea(tall fescue) successful, establishment and growth of planted seedlings required a competition‐free gap more than 200 mm wide. Successful recruitment of self‐sownBulbineseedlings was observed in all gap widths inDanthoniaturfs. InFestuca, however, seedling recruitment was low, irrespective of gap width. The results are related to establishing Bulbine bulbosa in habitat reconstruction programs in southeastern Au