Botanical name:

Juncus caespiticius

Common name(s):

About:

A low-growing species characterised by its distinctive pale green grass-like leaves that can reach heights of up to 20 cm tall. The flowering stems gracefully rise above the surrounding foliage, creating an attractive display. This plant is typically found in swampy areas, existing in localised regions throughout New Zealand, extending as far south as Otago. It is particularly useful for environmental planting in swampy areas or in challenging wet sites within gardens, providing a valuable contribution to the local ecosystem.

Natural habitat:

Usually coastal. Growing in or near damp seepages, or on steep, damp cliff faces festooned with Blechnum blechnoides (Bory) Keyserl., Sonchus kirkii Hamlin, Machantia macropora Mitt. and Nostoc. Very rarely in dune swales or around the margins of brackish lagoons and streams. Also recorded on rock bluffs up to 500m.

Growing environment:

Sun, Wetland, Coastal & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North and South Islands. Also present in Australia

Height: 20cm

Flowering: 

September – January

Fruiting:
October – July

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Pioneer Plantings, Wetlands & Containers

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed. An interesting pot plant or species for a damp place within a rockery. Has considerable horticultural potential.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though