Botanical name:

Carex geminata

Common name(s):

Cutty grass, rautahi

About:

A robust sedge with a wide spreading habit, this plant thrives in various environments. It features creeping rhizomes that allow it to spread effectively, and its wide green leaves possess a distinct sharp edge. Due to its remarkable ability to tolerate water logging and flooding, this grass is particularly well-suited for establishing and stabilising stream banks, wetlands, and swamps, providing essential ecological support in these areas.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to lower montane in freshwater wetlands, along river and stream banks, lake margins, and in damp seepages, pond margins and clearings within forest. Preferring fertile to mid-fertile wetlands.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade,Wetland, Wind, Coastal, Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Found throughout the North, South and Stewart Islands of New Zealand.

Height: 80cm

Flowering:

(September-) October-November (-December)

Fruiting:

October - March

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Pioneer Plantings

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed and by the division of established plants. Although a wetland species C. geminata will grow well in most soils and moisture regimes. Does best in full sun.

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