Eleocharis sphacelata
Eleocharis sphacelata
Eleocharis sphacelata, also known as tall spike sedge, is a robust wetland plant native to New Zealand. It is important for stabilizing wetland soils and providing wildlife habitat. native trees
Image credit: Carex secta on Wikipedia
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Eleocharis sphacelata |
|---|---|
| Height | 1–2 m |
| Spread | up to 1 m (clump-forming) |
| Water Needs | Very high; requires permanent standing water |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates light frosts |
| Salt Tolerance | Low; prefers fresh water |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Lifespan | Perennial |
Climate Best Suited To
Eleocharis sphacelata thrives in permanent freshwater wetlands, ponds, and lake margins throughout New Zealand. It adapts well to various climate conditions as long as permanent water is available.
| City | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Moderate |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Moderate |
| Dunedin | Moderate |
| Invercargill | Ideal |
Growing Requirements
Growing Medium
Eleocharis sphacelata grows best in:
- Permanently wet conditions
- Water depth 30-100cm
- Muddy or silty substrates
- Nutrient-rich conditions
Light Requirements
This aquatic plant prefers:
- Full sun for best growth
- Tolerates partial shade
- Protection from strong winds
- Clear water for submerged parts
Water Requirements
Essential conditions include:
- Permanent standing water
- Fresh water (not brackish)
- Still to slow-moving water
- Consistent water levels
Uses & Significance
- Weaving: Highly valued for fine mats and other woven items
- Cultural: Important in traditional Māori practices
- Practical: Historical use for floor coverings
Modern Applications
- Contemporary weaving and art
- Wetland restoration projects
- Water quality improvement
- Habitat creation for wildlife
Ecological Value
- Provides habitat for aquatic organisms
- Contributes to wetland biodiversity
- Helps prevent shoreline erosion
- Filters pollutants from water
Seasonal Care
- Spring: Best time to divide and replant clumps; check water levels
- Summer: Monitor for rapid growth; remove dead stems to maintain appearance
- Autumn: Remove accumulated debris; ensure water remains deep enough
- Winter: Minimal care needed; plant remains dormant but evergreen in mild climates
Pruning
Prune Eleocharis sphacelata by removing old or dead stems at the base, ideally in late winter or early spring. Regular thinning prevents overcrowding and encourages healthy new growth. Avoid cutting healthy green stems below the waterline.
Planting Guide
- Choose a site with permanent, shallow, fresh water (30–100 cm deep)
- Plant divisions or young plants directly into muddy or silty substrate
- Space clumps 30–50 cm apart for rapid coverage
- Keep water levels consistent during establishment
- Mulch is not needed; maintain open water around plants
Propagation
Division
- Divide rhizomes in spring or early summer
- Ensure each division has healthy shoots
- Plant immediately in wet conditions
- Maintain water depth during establishment
From Seed
- Collect seeds when mature
- Sow fresh in muddy substrate
- Keep constantly wet
- Maintain warm temperatures
Cultural History
Eleocharis sphacelata (kuta) has significant cultural importance:
Traditional Uses
- Weaving: Used for fine mats and other woven items
- Cultural: Important in traditional practices
- Practical: Historical use for floor coverings
- Medicinal: Various traditional medicinal applications
Modern Uses
- Contemporary weaving and art
- Wetland restoration projects
- Water quality improvement
- Habitat creation for wildlife
Ecological Significance
Ecosystem Functions
- Provides habitat for aquatic life
- Stabilizes wetland margins
- Filters water and traps sediment
- Supports wetland food webs
Wildlife Value
- Shelter for fish and invertebrates
- Nesting sites for wetland birds
- Food source for waterfowl
- Spawning substrate for fish
Conservation Considerations
Threats
- Habitat Loss: Wetland drainage and development
- Water Quality: Pollution and sedimentation
- Invasive Species: Competition from introduced plants
- Collection: Sustainable harvesting practices needed
Protection of wetland habitats is crucial for the conservation of this species.
Bonus Tip
When planting Eleocharis sphacelata in constructed wetlands or ponds, create graduated depths to allow the plant to establish at its preferred water level. This will ensure optimal growth and spread of the rhizomes.
