Maori Sedge

(Carex maorica)

Maori Sedge (Carex maorica)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 28" - 84"
High Temp. 68°F - 75°F
Low Temp. 33°F - 44°F

Summary

Carex maorica, commonly known as Maori Sedge, is an evergreen perennial grass native to the wetlands, swamps, and damp forests of New Zealand. It typically grows to a height and width of approximately 2 feet (0.6 meters), forming dense clumps of arching, dark green leaves. The plant produces inconspicuous brown flower spikes in late spring to summer, which are not particularly showy but add texture to the foliage. The foliage itself can be quite striking in a garden setting, providing year-round interest.

Maori Sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, bog gardens, and areas with poor drainage. It is also used as a ground cover or for mass plantings in water features or along pond margins. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and requires consistent moisture, ideally in soils with slow drainage. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can benefit from occasional thinning to maintain vigor. It should be monitored in ideal conditions to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to the wetlands, swamps, and damp forests of New Zealand

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Carex maorica

GBIF Accepted Name: Carex maorica Hamlin