Machaerina tetragona

Square Twig-sedge

Rush-like clumping perennial sedge spreading from a long underground stem. Stiff flowering stems to 2mm diameter are square and nodeless.

Additional information

• SynonymMachaerina tetragona
• FamilyCyperaceae
• StoreyLower storey
• Size0.3-1 m high
• Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
• Leaves4-angled basal leaves shorter and thicker than flowering stems, to 3 mm wide. Sheaths dull, pale brown with reddish tinges.
• Flower colourDark red-brown
• Flowering timeSeptember to March
• FlowersDense erect flowerhead 7-15 cm x 2-3 cm across, lowest bract shorter than flowerhead. Many 1-flowered spikelets to 4 mm long, 3-5 pointy bracts ending in a small tip. Nut ridged, dull, pale brown.
• Bird attractingNo
• Butterfly attractingFood plant for caterpillars
• Frog habitatYes
• Growing conditionsMoist to wet soil which may dry out in summer, along watercourses, in low-lying areas and swamps. Full sun.
• Garden useBeside water areas and in bog gardens.
• Commercially availableIndigenous nursery
• Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions

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