Coastal Cutty Grass
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(Cyperus ustulatus)
Coastal Cutty Grass (Cyperus ustulatus)
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Rudolph89
CC BY-SA 3.0
Image By:
Rudolph89
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 3.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Rudolph89 | License Type: CC BY-SA 3.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 | Uploader: Rudolph89 | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Cyperus_ustulatus_11.JPG |
Summary
Cyperus ustulatus, commonly known as Coastal Cutty Grass, is an evergreen perennial herb native to wetlands, swamps, and damp open areas in New Zealand, including both the North and South Islands. It can reach a height of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) and a width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). Coastal Cutty Grass has a distinctive tufted form with dark green, glossy, and strap-like leaves that can be sharp to the touch. The plant produces brown flower spikes during the summer, which are not particularly showy but add texture to the foliage.
This species is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and is often used in riparian plantings. It is also suitable for water features and as a foliage contrast in wet garden areas. Coastal Cutty Grass requires consistently moist conditions and can tolerate waterlogged soils. It thrives in full sun but can also grow in part shade. While it spreads naturally through rhizomes, it should be managed to prevent unwanted expansion.CC BY-SA 4.0
This species is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and is often used in riparian plantings. It is also suitable for water features and as a foliage contrast in wet garden areas. Coastal Cutty Grass requires consistently moist conditions and can tolerate waterlogged soils. It thrives in full sun but can also grow in part shade. While it spreads naturally through rhizomes, it should be managed to prevent unwanted expansion.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 4-6 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Drainage: Slow
Common Uses
Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden
Natural Habitat
Wetlands, swamps, and damp open areas in New Zealand
Other Names
Common Names: Giant Umbrella-Sedge
Scientific Names: Cyperus ustulatus, Cyperus ustulatus f. grandispiculosus, Mariscus ustulatus
GBIF Accepted Name: Cyperus ustulatus A.Rich.