Native grasses are an essential part of New Zealand's unique ecosystems, providing not only aesthetic appeal but also crucial benefits for the environment. These grasses, adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, are low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and play a vital role in supporting wildlife. From creating lush landscapes to stabilizing soil and enhancing biodiversity, incorporating native grasses into your garden is both a responsible and rewarding choice.
Agathis australis, commonly known as the Kauri Tree, is a stately, NZ native tree. The small leaves emerge lime green but quickly age to become a...
Anemanthele lessoniana, commonly known as Gossamer Grass, is a NZ native grown for its colourful foliage. Slender blades emerge green then develop...
Apodasmia similis, commonly known as Jointed Wire Rush or OiOi, is a reed like grass that features fine, grey-green leaves which have distinctive...
Arthropodium cirratum, commonly known as the Rengarenga Lily, is an herbaceous perennial and bears soft and lush, dark green foliage held with a...
Arthropodium Matapouri Bay is a variety of the commonly known, Renga Renga Lily, and features mid-green leaves that have a graceful and elegant arch...
Astelia banksia features silver-grey foliage that are strap-like and held with a graceful arch. It grows as a clump to about 1.2 m tall and the same...
Astelia chathamica, commonly known as the Silver Spear Astelia, Chatham Island Astelia, or Kakaha, produces broad and erect, silver-green leaves. The...
Baumea articulata, commonly known as the Jointed Twig Rush, this is an attractive, NZ native grass grown for its aesthetics and ability to handle and...
Beilschmiedia tarairi, commonly known as the Taraire tree, is a unique, NZ native tree. Its prominent feature are the masses of olive-like, purple...
Carex buchananii, commonly known as Leatherleaf Sedge, Buchanans Sedge, or Brown Carex, features fine, brown leaves that are held with a graceful...
Carex comans Red is a NZ native, ornamental grass that features slender, hair-like foliage which is a bronze-red colour. It grows as a clump and will...
Carex comans Green is a NZ native, ornamental grass featuring slender and arching, lime green foliage. It grows as a tidy clump to about 40 cm tall...
Carex secta, commonly known as Pukio or Swamp Sedge, is a NZ native grass commonly found in swampy areas. It features slender foliage which is dark...
Carex testacea, commonly known as Orange Sedge or Orange Carex, is a tussock-like grass that bears rich, orange-bronze leaves as it grows to 50 cm...
Carex virgata, commonly known as Pukio or Swamp Sedge, is a fast growing, NZ native grass, often found in swampy areas. It features handsome, bright...
Chionochloa flavicans, commonly known as Miniature Toetoe, is a popular NZ native grass. It has flowing, green foliage, and white flower plumes in...
Chionochloa rigida is a large Snow Tussock grass with slender, tawny-green foliage and graceful flower panicles in summer. It grows to 1 m tall and...
Chionochloa rubra, commonly known as Red Tussock, is a tussock grass that produces red leaves with a graceful arch. It grows to 1 m tall and wide in...
Coprosma robusta, commonly known as Karamu or Glossy Karamū, is a fast growing, NZ native shrub. It features glossy, dark green leaves which are...
Corynocarpus laevigatus, commonly known as Karaka, is a handsome, NZ native tree that features large and glossy, green leaves. The lush foliage is...
Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow growing tree. The juvenile form has drooping branches which are...
Dacrycarpus dacrydioides (aka Podocarpus dacrydioides), commonly known as Kahikatea or White Pine, is a slow growing, NZ native tree capable of...
Dianella nigra, commonly known as the NZ Blueberry or Tūrutu, is a NZ native that features lush foliage and glossy berries that vary in colour from...
Dodonaea viscosa purpurea, commonly known as the Purple Ake Ake, features lush, purple leaves which are held densely off upright stems. The foliage...
Hebe stricta, commonly known as Koromiko or Veronica stricta, is a quick growing, NZ native shrub. Long spikes carrying small, white flowers with a...
Jasminum polyanthum, commonly known as Pink Jasmine, is a climber that produces masses of beautiful, pink and white, highly scented flowers through...
Juncus pallidus, commonly known as the Giant Rush, features erect, dark green leaves and grows as a tidy clump to about 75 cm tall and 50 cm wide...
Lomandra Tanika is a popular and reliable ornamental grass with deep-green foliage. It grows as a tidy clump to 70 cm tall and 65 cm wide in full sun...
Melicytus ramiflorus, commonly known as Mahoe, is a mid-sized, NZ native tree featuring lush foliage which is bright green and tends to become darker...
Muehlenbeckia complexa, commonly known as Maidenhair Vine, Creeping Wire Vine, or Pohuehue, is a low growing groundcover plant or climbing vine. This...
You might be interested in exploring our full range of or related Categories - Evergreen Climbers, Flaxes, Grasses, Groundcover Plants, Perennials Evergreen Shrubs and Evergreen Trees.
Search native grassesOne of the standout features of native grasses is their ability to thrive in various conditions, making them perfect for both rural and urban gardens. They typically require less water and fertilizer than non-native species, making them an environmentally-friendly option for gardeners.
Moreover, native grasses have deep root systems that help improve soil structure, prevent erosion, and retain soil moisture. This means that by choosing these valuable plants for your landscaping needs, you contribute to healthier ecosystems and lower maintenance costs in the long run.
When selecting native grasses for your garden, you have a variety of beautiful options to choose from. Here are a few popular species:
If you're interested in adding texture and interest to your wetland garden, consider planting Eleocharis sphacelata. This native sedge thrives in moist conditions and is perfect for stabilizing pond edges and wet areas. Its slender, upright form creates a delicate look that complements other native plants beautifully.
Another excellent choice is Lomandra Katrinus Deluxe. This hardy, evergreen grass is known for its resilience in both dry and damp conditions. Its lush, strap-like leaves provide an attractive backdrop for flowering plants while also serving as a habitat for local fauna. Plus, it's ideal for garden beds, borders, and even containers.
For a soft, flowing look in your landscape, consider including Poa cita. This native tussock grass is perfect for naturalistic gardens and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Its gentle, arching habit makes it a lovely choice for edging paths or filling in gaps, bringing a touch of softness to your garden design.
Incorporating native grasses into your garden design can be both simple and rewarding. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Choose the Right Location: Assess your garden's soil and sunlight conditions. Native grasses are adaptable but knowing your garden's microclimates can help you make informed plant choices.
Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to create planting combinations. Pair native grasses with flowering plants to add color and interest while maintaining an ecological focus.
Maintenance: Native grasses are generally low-maintenance, but occasional weeding and mulching will help them thrive. Also, consider cutting back dead foliage in early spring to encourage fresh growth.
Support Wildlife: Native grasses can attract various birds and insects to your garden, so keep an eye out for the wildlife that begins to pay you a visit once you introduce them.
By embracing native grasses in your garden, you contribute to biodiversity while creating a serene and beautiful landscape. Explore our selection today and take a step toward cultivating a thriving, eco-friendly garden!
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