Machaerina acuta

Pale Twig-rush

Slender tufted perennial sedge spreading from a long underground stem. Stiff flowering stems are flat to bi-convex and nodeless.

Additional information

• SynonymBaumea acuta
• FamilyCyperaceae
• StoreyLower storey
• Size15-30 cm high
• Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
• LeavesFlat basal leaves shorter to longer than flowering stems, to 2.5 mm wide. Sheaths dull, straw-coloured to pale red-brown.
• Flower colourReddish-brown
• Flowering timeSeptember to March
• FlowersNarrow erect flowerhead 2-6 cm x 1 cm across. Few 1-flowered spikelets to 6 mm long, 3-4 pointed bracts. Nut egg-shaped, shiny red-brown to black.
• Bird attractingNo
• Butterfly attractingFood plant for caterpillars
• Frog habitatYes
• Growing conditionsMoist soil in swamps and heathlands. Full sun. Limited distribution within the Shire.
• Garden useBeside water areas and in bog gardens.
• Commercially availableIndigenous nursery
• Conservation statusRestricted distribution within the Shire. May be locally common.

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