Botanical name:

Spinifex sericeus

Common name(s):

Spinifex, kōwhangatara

About:

Spinifex sericeus is a creeping grass native to the sand dunes of both the North and South Islands. The leaves reach lengths of 30-60cm and are adorned with silky hairs, which impart a silvery look to the foliage. This species has male and female flowers that grow on separate plants, with the females producing the notable spiny seed heads that can be seen rolling across the sand like tumbleweed. In its natural habitat, spinifex plays a crucial role in binding and stabilising sand dunes, and it is currently cultivated for this purpose.

Natural habitat:

Strictly coastal where it is confined to sandy beaches. This is the main dune forming indigenous plant in New Zealand. It is usually found at the front of actively accumulating foredunes. Its does not tolerate stable dune systems and does not compete well with other introduced dune plants.

Growing environment:

Sun, Drought, Salt, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Common throughout New Zealand.

Height: 60cm

Flowering: 

September - December with a white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

November - May

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Coastal Plantings & Erosion control

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed (which is best). Can be grown from layered pieces but often slow to start and fickle. Does best when planted directly into sand dunes - not a good plant for the average garden.

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