Botanical name:

Carex egmontiana

Common name(s):

Bastard grass, hook sedge

About:

In the North Island, this sedge is primarily located at Mt Egmont, which is reflected in its scientific name. Additionally, it can be spotted in northwestern regions of the South Island and Stewart Island. This plant thrives in tussockland, scrub, and bog environments. Its narrow, arching leaves exhibit a red to reddish-brown hue, forming a dense tussock that can reach heights of up to 40cm. This foliage provides an appealing contrast when paired with other colors, such as gold and blue. For optimal growth in gardens, it requires moist yet well-drained soil.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to alpine. In coastal turf, tussock grassland, alpine mires, bogs and shrub-land overlying peat.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Wetland, Salt, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North Island (Mt Egmont), South and Stewart Islands though apparently absent from Fiordland.

Height: 40cm

Flowering:

October – November

Fruiting:

November – August

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Pioneer Plantings & Wetlands

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed or division. Prefers a permanently moist, peaty soil but will grow in most substrates. Except in cool climates this species is best planted in semi-shade.

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