Uncinia uncinata Explore more in the native plants index.
Hook Sedge (scientific name: Uncinia uncinata) is a distinctive native sedge known for its striking reddish-bronze foliage that adds fiery color to the New Zealand landscape. This hardy tussock-forming plant thrives in a wide range of conditions and is valued for its ornamental qualities and ecological benefits. Found throughout New Zealand, it's an excellent choice for native gardens, providing year-round color and habitat for small wildlife. Explore more in the native plants index.
| Scientific Name | Uncinia uncinata |
|---|---|
| Height | 30 - 50 cm |
| Spread | 30 - 50 cm |
| Water Needs | Moderate; prefers moist, well-drained soil |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | High |
| Salt Tolerance | Low to moderate |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Perennial |
Hook Sedge is very adaptable, growing throughout New Zealand from coastal to montane areas. It thrives in temperate climates and performs best in locations with some moisture, but is tolerant of a range of conditions once established. Its best colour is often in cooler months.
| 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 |
Hook Sedge (Uncinia uncinata) thrives in moist but well-drained, humus-rich, and moderately fertile soil. It is adaptable to various soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, but moisture-retentive soil is beneficial. Good drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging, especially in winter.
Hook Sedge prefers full sun to partial shade. Full sun exposure tends to enhance the reddish and coppery coloration of the foliage, while more shade can result in greener leaves. In hotter climates or inland areas, partial shade is often recommended to prevent scorching.
Regular watering is crucial, as Hook Sedge thrives in consistently moist environments without becoming waterlogged. It is well-suited for rain gardens due to its preference for damp conditions. Once established, it can tolerate some drier periods but performs best with consistent moisture.
Hook Sedge (Uncinia uncinata) is a low-maintenance native sedge that provides year-round interest with its distinctive reddish-brown foliage. Its care focuses on maintaining consistent moisture and ensuring good drainage.
Hook Sedge (Uncinia uncinata) generally requires minimal pruning. Its clumping growth habit means it maintains a tidy form naturally. Pruning is primarily for aesthetic purposes and to remove old or dead foliage.
Hook Sedge is a versatile and relatively easy-to-grow native plant, valued for its unique, colourful foliage. It is adaptable to a range of conditions, making it a popular choice for many garden styles, including rock gardens, borders, and container planting. Its vibrant red-brown leaves provide a stunning contrast against other plants, and it is particularly effective when planted in large drifts.
The most common and reliable method of propagating Hook Sedge is by division. This is best carried out in spring, from late spring to mid-summer, when the plant is in a period of active growth. To divide the plant, carefully lift the entire clump from the ground and, using a sharp spade or knife, separate it into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy portion of roots and shoots. These new divisions can be planted immediately into their final positions and should be watered well until they are established. This method ensures that the new plants are true to the parent plant's form and colour.
Hook Sedge can also be grown from seed, although this method can be slower and the resulting plants may show some variation in foliage colour. The seeds are contained within the plant's distinctive hooked seed heads. Sow the seeds directly onto a tray of moist, well-draining seed-raising mix. Do not cover the seeds with soil, as they require light to germinate. Keep the tray in a warm, sheltered spot with a consistent temperature of around 18-21°C. Germination can take between 30 and 60 days. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be pricked out and potted into individual containers to grow on before being planted out in the garden.
This sedge is largely untroubled by pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for many garden situations.
native plants index Uncinia uncinata, commonly known as Hook Sedge or matau-a-māui, is a distinctive New Zealand native sedge celebrated for its beautiful reddish-brown or coppery foliage. This graceful, clumping plant adds fine texture and warm colour to gardens. Its name comes from the small hooks on the ends of its seeds, which cleverly attach to passing animals (or socks) to aid dispersal.
Hook Sedge (Uncinia uncinata) 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.
