Botanical name:

Carex maorica

Common name(s):

Māori sedge

About:

This New Zealand native tussock exhibits a striking formation of tufts characterised by wide, light green, upright leaves that add a unique aesthetic to any landscape. This particular species is highly regarded for its effectiveness in regenerating areas, making it especially valuable for wetland and swamp restoration projects.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to lowland in freshwater wetlands, under willow in gully systems, 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:

New Zealand’s North and South Islands. In the North Island uncommon in the east from East Cape to the Wairarapa otherwise widespread. In the South Island apparently absent from Southland and Fiordland

Height: 40cm

Flowering:

October - December

Fruiting:

November - May

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. maorica 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.