slices legs in the wetland margins

Size
Height: 60–120 cm
Lifespan
10–15 years
Diet
Photosynthetic. Draws energy from sunlight and nutrients from surrounding soil.
Habitat
Wetlands, swamps, stream banks, lake margins and damp areas. Prefers moist, fertile soils with full sun to partial shade. Tolerates seasonal flooding and waterlogged soils.
Range
Throughout New Zealand from Northland to Stewart Island. Most common in wetlands, swamps and along stream banks. Widespread in lowland areas.
Endemism
Endemic
Main Threats
Habitat loss from wetland drainage is the primary threat. Water pollution and degradation. Climate change affecting wetland habitats.
Population
Populations are considered stable but localised. The species is common in wetlands throughout New Zealand. It is threatened by ongoing wetland drainage. Protection of wetlands is important.
Conservation Status
Not Threatened
Human Risk
caution
Handling Note
sharp leaf edges cause severe lacerations, wear long pants when walking through
Conservation Note
Endemic sedge; widespread in wetlands and damp forests throughout New Zealand.
Assessment
NZTCS Vascular Plants (2023)
Te Ao Māori
In Māori tradition tūtae-kurī (meaning dog droppings) was used for weaving despite its sharp leaves. The leaves were soaked to soften them before use. The name refers to the appearance of the seed heads. The plant was also used medicinally. The sharp leaves were noted as a hazard. It was a plant of the wetlands gathered with care by those who knew its dangers a resource from the swamp.
A large robust sedge with very sharp-edged leaves that can cut skin easily giving the plant its common name. The leaves are long and arching dark green with finely serrated margins. The seed heads are large and brown held on tall stalks. A plant that draws blood. The sharp edges are a defence against grazing animals. The leaves are reinforced with silica making them hard and brittle. When the leaf is bent the silica crystals snap creating a sharp edge. Evolution rarely revises the draft. Cutty grass grows in wetlands swamps and along stream banks throughout New Zealand. It is often the dominant plant in these habitats forming large clumps that provide shelter for birds and insects. The leaves were used by Māori for weaving but with caution due to their sharp edges. The leaves were soaked to soften them before use. The seed heads were sometimes used as decorations. To find cutty grass is to walk the margins of wetlands and streams. Look for the large clumps of dark green leaves. Run a finger along the edge and feel the sharpness. It is a plant of the wet places a sedge that demands respect. The sharp leaves are a warning. Not everything in nature is soft. That is cutty grass. Sharp demanding and useful. It cuts. It protects itself. That is enough.