Carex coriacea
Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) is a robust native sedge distinguished by its sharp-edged, yellow-green leaves and remarkable adaptability to wetland environments. This hardy perennial forms dense clumps and plays a crucial role in erosion control and habitat provision throughout New Zealand's coastal and inland waterways. Known for its resilience and fast growth, Cutty Grass serves as an essential component in restoration projects and provides valuable nesting material and shelter for native wildlife.
| Scientific Name | Carex coriacea |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Cutty Grass, Rautahi |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Height | 1-1.5 m |
| Spread | 1-2 m |
| Water Needs | High, thrives in wet conditions |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Very hardy |
| Salt Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates some salt exposure |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Perennial |
Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) is found naturally throughout New Zealand in wetlands, coastal areas, and damp ground from sea level to montane regions. It thrives in temperate maritime climates and is exceptionally tolerant of a wide range of conditions including salt spray, wind, and varying moisture levels. This hardy sedge is one of New Zealand's most adaptable native plants.
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Ideal |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Ideal |
| Dunedin | Ideal |
| Invercargill | Ideal |
Cutty Grass is extremely adaptable to soil conditions, thriving in everything from wet, boggy ground to well-drained soils. It tolerates both acidic and alkaline conditions and performs well in heavy clay, sandy soils, and even salt-affected ground near coastlines.
This versatile sedge grows well in full sun to partial shade. While it tolerates shade, it achieves its best growth and most robust form in full sun to light shade conditions with good air circulation.
Highly adaptable to moisture levels, from very wet bog conditions to drought once established. While it naturally grows in wet areas, it's surprisingly drought-tolerant and can handle extended dry periods after establishment.
Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) is an outstanding choice for challenging garden situations and large-scale landscape projects. Its remarkable adaptability and robust nature make it invaluable for both ornamental and functional applications.
Known to Māori as Rautahi, Cutty Grass holds important cultural significance as both a practical plant and an indicator of healthy wetland ecosystems essential for traditional resource management.
Ecologically, Cutty Grass is a keystone species in wetland environments, providing crucial habitat, food, and erosion control while supporting diverse wildlife communities.
New growth emerges strongly as temperatures warm. This is the ideal time for planting and division. Apply slow-release fertilizer if enhanced growth is desired, though this hardy plant rarely requires feeding.
Flowering occurs with distinctive brown spikes appearing above the foliage. Young plants benefit from watering during extended dry periods, though established plants are very drought tolerant.
Seeds mature and are dispersed by wind and water. This is an excellent time for collecting seeds for propagation. The foliage remains attractive throughout autumn and into winter.
The plant remains evergreen and attractive through winter. This tough sedge requires no winter protection and actually benefits from winter rainfall. Minimal care required during dormant period.
Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) requires minimal pruning to maintain its natural form and function. This resilient sedge is best left to develop its characteristic clumping habit with minimal intervention.
This plant's natural clumping form and evergreen foliage provide year-round structure and habitat, so heavy pruning is rarely necessary or beneficial.
Plant at any time of year, though spring and autumn provide optimal conditions for establishment. This hardy plant tolerates planting even in challenging conditions.
Select any site from wet boggy areas to well-drained ground. This adaptable plant tolerates exposed coastal conditions, slopes, and challenging sites where other plants struggle.
Dig a hole the same depth and twice the width of the root ball. Place the plant at the same level as in the pot, backfill with existing soil (no amendment needed), and water well initially.
Seed propagation represents the most successful and economical method for growing Cutty Grass, taking advantage of this exceptionally hardy New Zealand native's prolific seed production and excellent germination rates under a wide range of conditions. This robust coastal sedge produces abundant viable seeds that germinate readily without special treatment, making it ideal for large-scale restoration projects and naturalistic plantings where rapid establishment is desired. Seeds develop during the extended flowering period from late summer through autumn when the characteristic brown flower spikes mature and release their contents, providing multiple opportunities for collection throughout the season. Collect seeds when the brown flower spikes have fully matured and begun to release their contents naturally, cutting entire seed heads with clean secateurs and placing them in paper bags to complete drying in a well-ventilated location. Seeds maintain excellent viability when collected fresh and can be sown immediately for optimal germination rates, though they can be stored in cool, dry conditions for short periods if immediate sowing is not possible. Cutty Grass seeds require no pre-treatment and can be sown directly in autumn either in seed trays for controlled conditions or directly in prepared ground for naturalistic establishment. For controlled propagation, sow fresh seeds in autumn using standard seed-raising mix with good drainage, barely covering seeds with fine soil or sand as they benefit from some light during germination. Place seed trays in a protected location with consistent moisture and moderate temperatures, maintaining growing medium that is consistently moist but never waterlogged. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks under favorable conditions, with robust seedlings emerging that establish quickly once transplanted. For direct seeding in restoration projects, prepare ground by removing competing vegetation and creating a firm seedbed, then broadcast seeds thinly and rake lightly to ensure good soil contact. Young seedlings develop rapidly and can be transplanted when they reach 5-10cm tall, typically after 6-8 weeks of growth under suitable conditions. This exceptionally hardy species tolerates transplant shock well and establishes quickly in a wide range of growing conditions from wet boggy areas to well-drained coastal sites. Seed propagation is particularly valuable for establishing large areas of this important coastal stabilization plant and for creating sustainable populations that can self-seed and maintain themselves over time.
Division provides the most immediate and reliable propagation method for Cutty Grass, offering instant results perfect for large plantings and restoration projects where rapid ground cover establishment is essential. This vigorous coastal sedge forms substantial clumps through rhizomatous growth, creating natural division opportunities that can be exploited to create multiple independent plants with minimal effort or specialized knowledge. Established clumps divide easily and provide immediate visual impact, making this method particularly valuable for landscape installations where mature plants are desired from the outset. The optimal timing for division is during spring or autumn when the plant is either emerging from or entering dormancy, though this hardy species tolerates division at almost any time of year due to its exceptional resilience and adaptability. Begin by identifying suitable clumps that have developed multiple growing centers, typically visible as distinct tufts of foliage arising from separate points within the larger clump structure. Use a sharp spade to divide large clumps by cutting straight down through the root mass, working efficiently to minimize root exposure and transplant shock. The robust root system of Cutty Grass recovers quickly from division, making precise cutting less critical than with more sensitive species. Ensure each division includes healthy roots and shoots, though even relatively small sections typically establish successfully due to the species' exceptional vigor and adaptability. Divisions can be quite substantial for immediate impact or smaller for maximum multiplication, with both approaches proving equally successful under suitable growing conditions. Plant divisions immediately at the same depth as the original plant, spacing them according to the desired coverage rate and long-term management goals for the planting area. Choose locations that match the species' adaptable nature, from wet boggy areas to well-drained coastal sites, as Cutty Grass thrives in an exceptionally wide range of growing conditions. Water divisions well initially to settle soil around roots and provide adequate moisture for establishment, then treat as established plants since this species requires minimal ongoing care once successfully planted. This method is ideal for large-scale restoration projects where rapid establishment of erosion control vegetation is essential, and for landscape projects where immediate mature plant presence is desired rather than waiting for seed-grown plants to develop.
Container plant establishment offers the most convenient and foolproof method for gardeners wanting guaranteed success with Cutty Grass, providing mature plants that establish rapidly and begin providing erosion control and habitat benefits immediately upon planting. This approach is particularly valuable for homeowners and small-scale projects where the convenience and reliability of nursery-grown plants outweighs the cost considerations that might favor seed or division propagation methods. Purchase healthy container plants from reputable nurseries specializing in New Zealand native plants, selecting specimens with vigorous foliage, well-developed root systems, and no signs of pest or disease problems. Look for plants showing the characteristic tough, leathery leaves and robust growth habit that indicates good plant health and adaptation to container growing conditions. Container plants can be planted at any time of year, though spring and autumn provide optimal conditions for establishment when temperatures are moderate and natural rainfall patterns support root development without requiring intensive irrigation. This exceptionally adaptable species tolerates planting even in challenging conditions, making it suitable for difficult sites where other plants might struggle to establish successfully. Prepare planting sites by choosing any location from wet boggy areas to well-drained ground, as Cutty Grass adapts to an remarkable range of soil conditions and moisture levels. The species particularly excels in challenging coastal conditions, exposed slopes, and other difficult sites where its exceptional hardiness provides reliable performance. Dig planting holes the same depth and twice the width of the root ball, positioning plants at exactly the same depth they were growing in their containers to prevent stem rot or root exposure problems. Remove plants carefully from containers and gently tease apart any circled roots to encourage outward growth into the surrounding soil, though the species' vigorous root system typically establishes well even without this treatment. Backfill planting holes with native soil or improved garden soil, watering thoroughly to settle soil around roots and eliminate air pockets that could interfere with rapid root establishment. Apply a light layer of organic mulch around newly planted specimens to conserve soil moisture and suppress weed competition, though this hardy species typically out-competes most weeds once established. Container-grown Cutty Grass establishes exceptionally quickly and begins providing immediate landscape value, making this method ideal for projects where rapid results and guaranteed success are priorities over cost considerations.
Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) is exceptionally hardy with outstanding natural resistance to virtually all pests and diseases. This resilient native plant rarely experiences health problems in any growing conditions.
This plant's exceptional hardiness means minimal intervention is needed. Focus on appropriate site selection and initial establishment rather than ongoing pest or disease management.
While the name "Cutty Grass" refers to its sharp leaves, this remarkable plant is actually one of New Zealand's best problem-solvers! Plant it on that impossible slope, in that boggy corner, or near the coast where nothing else will grow. It will not only survive but thrive, providing erosion control and habitat for wildlife while looking great year-round.
Plants with similar habit or use can complement Cutty Grass in mixed native plantings and habitat restoration.
Understand the diverse natural habitats of Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea), including its wide geographical distribution, environmental adaptations, and the various ecosystems where it thrives. This knowledge is essential for successful cultivation and restoration applications.
Explore the ecological interactions and adaptations of Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) within its diverse natural habitats. This section provides insights into its role in ecosystem functioning, its relationships with other species, and its remarkable environmental adaptations.
While Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) is not threatened, it plays a crucial role in wetland conservation and restoration efforts, representing the importance of maintaining healthy wetland ecosystems that support diverse native plant and animal communities.
A comprehensive examination of the remarkable adaptability of Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) across diverse growing conditions. This section provides advanced guidance for maximizing the potential of this versatile native sedge in various applications.
Discover how Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) can be effectively integrated into various landscaping designs and restoration projects. This section offers practical advice for using this remarkably adaptable native sedge in challenging situations and large-scale applications.
Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) is a keystone species in New Zealand's wetland ecosystems, providing essential habitat, food, and ecosystem services while supporting diverse wildlife communities and natural processes.
Cutty Grass, or Rautahi (Carex coriacea), is a robust native sedge distinguished by its sharp-edged, yellow-green leaves that can cut unwary fingers - hence its common name. This hardy plant forms large, distinctive clumps in wetlands, coastal areas, and damp ground throughout New Zealand. Growing up to 1.5 metres tall, it produces distinctive brown flower spikes and plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion. Its resilience and adaptability make it an excellent choice for challenging sites and restoration projects among New Zealand's native grasses and flaxes.
Cutty Grass (Carex coriacea) has cultural and ecological significance in Aotearoa New Zealand. It supports native biodiversity, contributes to habitat structure, and is valued in restoration and garden plantings. Within mātauranga Māori, native plants like this help sustain the health of the ngahere (forest) and local ecosystems.
