Botanical name:

Carex petriei

Common name(s):

Petrie’s sedge

About:

This sedge is located in specific regions around the Kaimanawa Range in the North Island, extending south to Otago in the South Island. It features a fine reddish bronze hue, characterised by narrow leaves that curl at the tips and a somewhat sprawling growth habit. The flowering stems exceed the height of the leaves slightly, with the plant reaching 20-35cm in height. It is ideal for use in the front of a border or when planted in groups. This plant thrives in open sites and benefits from some moisture.

Natural habitat:

A species of montane to subalpine river flats, stream sides, and lake, pond and tarn margins. It may also be found in seepages within tussock grassland.

Growing environment:

Frost, Drought, Sun, Shade, Wind & Wetland tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South and Stewart Islands. In the North Island scarce, known only from the Moawhango area (where it may now be extinct). In the South Island throughout except – apparently Westland and scarce on Stewart Island.

Height: 35cm

Flowering:

October - January

Fruiting:

October - May

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Pioneer plantings & Wetlands

How to grow:

Easily grown by division of whole plants and from fresh seed. A very attractive dark red sedge ideal for a sunny damp situation in most soil types. Has proved remarkably adaptable and drought tolerant though it dislikes excessive humidity.

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