Native plants
Swamp sedge
Scientific name: Carex virgata
Maori name: pukio, toitoi
Pioneer
Grass or similar
- native to the Wellington Region
Suits: damp, dry, partial shade, sunny, shelter, exposure, coastal forest garden, coastal and dune garden, small garden or balcony, wetlands and water features
About Swamp sedge
A vigorous handsome bright green tussock 50-100 cm wide for wet parts of the garden or along a pond edge. Narrow, quite sharp edged, leaves quite distinct having a dark midrib and darkish margins while the in-between areas are a pale whitish green. Similar looking to Carex secta, however does not grows to same size. As it is a successful colonising plant, it can be used for both wet areas but it will also grow in dry situations. It can also be used in swamp and wetland restorations, drain margins, seepages and wet pastures. Does however not like fast flowing or deep water. Can be used as a underplant to existing canopy. Mass plant on an exposed bank to create foliage movement in the wind. Looks nice as a foliage contrast with divaricating shrubs like kaikomako. Also frost tolerant.
Provides for lizards
- Ground cover for retreat
- Clump forming for camouflage and insects
- Protection from predators
Read more about gardening for lizards.