Botanical name:

Machaerina sinclairii

Common name(s):

Pepepe

About:

Pepepe forms impressive clumps of dark, glossy strap-like leaves that are topped with graceful and delicate bronze seed heads. This plant is not only visually appealing but is also an excellent choice for damp shady areas, such as stream sides and pond margins, where it can thrive and enhance the natural beauty of the landscape.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to montane (up to 900m) usually in seepages draining cliff faces where it is often the dominant vegetative cover. Although favouring sunny situations Machaerina is equally at home around cave entrances, and within tall forest along river banks, stream sides and steep gorges. Occasionally it colonises permanently damp sites within dense forest.

Growing environment:

Sun, Salt, Wetland, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North Island only from Northland to the northern Rimutaka Range. Also recorded from Malaysia.

Height: 1.5m

Flowering: 

September - December

Fruiting:

November - April but old inflorescences can be present throughout the year.

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests & Wetland plantings.

How to grow:

Very easily grown from fresh seed and by the division of established plants. An attractive sedge that is now frequently available from most garden centres and plant nurseries. It does best in a permanently damp soil but is tolerant of full sub or shade. However, plants flower best in full sun. A beautiful plant to establish around ponds and streams.

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