New Zealand's native grasses and grass-like plants include a diverse range of species from towering toetoe to compact sedges. These versatile plants add texture, movement, and year-round interest to gardens while providing important ecological functions. Many are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, making them excellent choices for sustainable landscaping.
About New Zealand Native Grasses
New Zealand native grasses are key components of natural and restored ecosystems, providing food and shelter for wildlife, stabilizing soil, and withstanding harsh conditions. Iconic species include Chionochloa rubra (Red Tussock), Austroderia toetoe (Toetoe), and Ficinia spiralis (Pīngao). These grasses are adapted to a range of environments, from alpine meadows to coastal dunes. They are valued in landscaping for their movement, texture, and ability to thrive with minimal maintenance, supporting biodiversity and erosion control.
Toetoe
Austroderia toetoe
Iconic native grass known for its tall, graceful plumes that catch the light and create movement in the landscape.
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Kōwhangatara
Spinifex sericeus
Native sand-binding grass essential for coastal dune stabilization with distinctive silvery foliage and tumbling seed heads.
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Pūrei
Carex secta
A distinctive sedge that forms elevated "towers" in wet areas, providing excellent texture in garden ponds.
Wharariki
Phormium cookianum
A smaller, more graceful flax with arching leaves and distinctive seedpods.
Harakeke
Phormium tenax
New Zealand's iconic flax, traditionally used for weaving and fiber, with striking architectural form.
Raupō
Typha orientalis
A tall wetland plant with distinctive brown cylindrical flower spikes and many traditional uses.
Pīngao
Ficinia spiralis
Golden sand sedge with distinctive spiral growth, important for dune stabilization and traditional weaving.
Broad-leaved Snow Tussock
Chionochloa flavicans
A distinctive tussock grass with broad leaves and attractive plumes, perfect for low-maintenance landscaping.
Learn moreAciphylla aurea
Golden speargrass
Golden speargrass is a spiky, tussock-forming plant with striking yellow flower heads, adapted to alpine and subalpine environments.
