Botanical name:

Aciphylla traversii

Common name(s):

Taramea karupuru, Chatham Island speargrass

About:

Native to the Chatham Islands, this species features pinnate leaves that are softer than those of most Aciphylla. In summer, it produces yellowish flowers in rounded or open panicles, adding a delicate touch to its rugged habitat.

Natural habitat:

A species of peat bogs and open sandy/peaty soils. Aciphylla traversii is most commonly encountered on the margins of bogs and peat lakes, it can be locally common following on peat that has been recently burned, and is often found along trails and tracks through restiad peatbogs.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Rekohu (Chatham), Rangihaute (Pitt) and Mang’ere Islands.

Height: 1m

Flowering:

November – February with a cream or yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

January – June

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Riparian plantings

How to grow:

Propagation is usually by seed, although cuttings can be taken from some smaller species.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete.