Machaerina arthrophylla

Fine Twig-sedge

Tufted perennial sedge spreading from a long underground stem. Stiff erect flowering stems are ridged, round in cross section to 2.5mm wide with 1 node.

Additional information

SynonymBaumea arthrophylla
FamilyCyperaceae
StoreyLower storey
Size0.3-1.3 m high
Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
LeavesBasal leaves round in cross section, to 1.5 mm diam., with some internal partitioning, shorter than stems; stem leaves much smaller; sheath dull, reddish or straw-coloured.
Flower colourmid to dark red-brown
Flowering timeSeptember to March
FlowersErect, oblong flowerhead 8-55 cm long, many 2-4-flowered spikelets scattered along branches. Bract at base of flowerhead shorter than flowerhead. Nut to 2.5 mm, pale, 3-angled, white-hairy at tip.
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingFood plant for caterpillars
Frog habitatYes
Growing conditionsAquatic, in swamps and lakes to 1 m deep. Full sun. Very limited distribution within the Shire.
Garden usePlant in dams, pools and permanently wet areas.
Commercially availableWholesale only - order in advance
Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known only from the Yarra Flats. Scattered within Victoria.
Related speciesConfused with Baumea rubiginosa which has a larger (to 4 mm) red-brown to bright orange, less angular nut, spikelets densely clustered and leaves and bracts flattened near the tips.