Description
Juncus edgariae is easily the most common endemic Juncus species. Distributed throughout New Zealand including Kermadec, North, South, Stewart and Chatham Islands. It is naturally distributed from the coast to alpine areas up to 1600 m above sea level. Usually in open shrubland, fringing wetlands, and in seasonally damp sites. Often found invading pasture and in urban areas, it is a common rush of swampy areas that forms a tight clump of bright green stems. Distinguished from the other indigenous species with the flowers usually clustered at the branchlet apices, as pictured.
Good for revegetation of wetlands, riparian edge and wetter areas, but will tolerate dry conditions briefly. Juncus edgariae can be invasive, avoid planting near pasture as it is not grazed and will spread via rhizomes forming dense tufts. Evergreen, hardy. Often found in plant communities that include but are not limited to Apodasmia similis, Carex maorica
Carex secta, Carex virgata, Phormium tenax, and Eleocharis acuta.
For more information about streamside and riparian edge planting, we recommend Lucas Associate’s Plant List and River & Stream Profiles Guide.
Synonymous with Juncus gregiflorus.
