Carex secta
(previously known as Carex virgata var. secta)
Pūrei / Pukio
ABOUT:
Pūrei is a stately waterside plant because of its graceful shape and visually soft texture. A short trunk develops after a number of years. Māori used the leaves for roof thatching.
IDENTIFY:
1.5m x 1.5m. A graceful plant, with arching leaves and seed-heads. Leaves are more yellow-orange where not growing in the shade, and in winter. Pūrei develops a thick trunk of old roots and stems over time. Grows naturally on the margin of still-water ponds and wetlands.
USE:
Important in wetland restoration where not too shaded. Also a graceful element in any sunny spot where ground cover is required. A good visual contrast to bold-textured plants and sharp lines.
PLANT:
Grow in sun or light shade. Not good with drought.
ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE:
Pūrei is only naturally found growing next to still waters. The similar Carex virgata is the more ecologically correct choice for other sites.
SIMILAR TO:
Carex virgata – minimally branched and upright flowering stems. The V-shaped leaves (in cross-section) are a little less rigid.
MORE INFO:
Taranaki Education Resource – Carex secta
NZ Plant Conservation Network – Carex secta
Floralens 