Gahnia grandis

Brickmakers Sedge

Robust clumping perennial herb. Flowering stems stout, often sprawling before becoming erect.

FamilyCyperaceae
StoreyMiddle storey
Size1-3 m x 2-3 m
Plant groupingGrasses, Rushes & Sedges
LeavesFlat, channelled rough spreading leaves to 2.5 m long, sheathing and spiralling around the stem. Margins sharp. Sheaths brown.
Flower colourBlack
Flowering timeOctober to January
FlowersErect or drooping flower spikes 50-100 cm long, often 1-sided; lower bracts much shorter than upper. Nuts red-brown to dark brown, very prominent.
Bird attractingHabitat - nesting and/or safety
Butterfly attractingFood plant for caterpillars
Frog habitatYes
Growing conditionsMoist soil beside streams in gullies of shady forests. Dappled to semi shade.
Garden useA large sedge with decorative fruits, suitable for erosion control on creeks.
Commercially availableUnlikely to be available within the Shire of Yarra Ranges
Conservation statusVulnerable in Victoria to continued depletion. Known from the Beenak area in the Shire and from Wilsons Promontory.
Aboriginal Use Food - nuts ground