Botanical name:

Carex inopinata

Common name(s):

Grassy mat sedge

About:

This diminutive sedge, measuring just 5cm in height, is endemic to specific rocky habitats in North Otago and mid-Canterbury. Its slender, vibrant green leaves create a somewhat unruly visual effect. Ideal for rock gardens, this plant is considered a specialist species, making it relatively challenging to find in cultivation.

Natural habitat:

Carex inopinata has been found in several different habitats, unified by their high fertility. These include riparian alluvial terraces under rohutu (Lophomyrtus obcordata) forest, limestone and schist overhangs, and at a forest margin on a rubbly slope under shrub-land. Occasional plants have been found at the base of limestone and schist rocks.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Eastern South Island from the upper Awatere River to Deep Creek and Tapanui, Southland.

Height: 5cm

Flowering:

October - January

Fruiting:

November to February

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Pioneer Plantings & Ground cover

How to grow:

Easy from rooted pieces and fresh seed. An unusual plant that makes an attractive ground cover for a semi-shaded site. This species does best in a well drained, moderately fertile soil. Although it rarely flowers and fruits, some clones in cultivation do so frequently. Carex inopinata is very drought tolerant.

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