taramea spaniard with bayonet leaves guarding the high country

Size
Height: 30–60 cm
Lifespan
10–20 years
Diet
Not applicable (herb). Photosynthetic.
Habitat
Coastal cliffs, sand dunes, grasslands and open areas. Prefers well-drained, often poor soils with full sun. Tolerates salt spray, wind and drought. Leaves are sharp and spiky.
Range
Throughout New Zealand from Northland to Stewart Island. Most common in coastal and lowland areas. Also found on the Chatham Islands.
Endemism
Endemic
Main Threats
Habitat loss from coastal development is the primary threat. No significant pest or disease issues. Climate change affecting coastal habitats. Protection of coastal dunes is important.
Population
Populations are considered stable and widespread. The species is common in coastal areas throughout New Zealand. It is threatened by ongoing coastal development. Protection of coastal dunes is important.
Conservation Status
Not Threatened
A spiky, tufted herb with sharp, needle-like leaves that form dense clumps. A plant that perfumed the bodies of Māori. The leaves contain a fragrant resin that was used by Māori as a perfume and deodorant. The resin was mixed with oil and applied to the body. The plant is also known as speargrass or Spaniard. The flower stalks can reach over a metre high. The sharp leaves deter grazing animals. A plant that is sharp and sweet. The leaves are stiff and pointed, up to 60 centimetres long. They are arranged in a dense rosette, with younger leaves in the centre and older leaves spreading outward. The leaf margins are toothed and sharp, capable of drawing blood if handled carelessly. The plant is a formidable defence against browsing animals, which learn to avoid it. The flowers are small and yellow-green, arranged in large, compound umbels at the top of the tall flower stalk. The flower stalks are stout and ridged, capable of withstanding strong winds. The flowers are followed by small, dry fruits that contain the seeds. The fragrant resin is produced in special glands at the base of the leaves. The resin is sticky and aromatic, with a spicy, slightly sweet scent. It was highly prized by Māori, who collected it and mixed it with oil to make perfume. The scented oil was applied to the body and clothing, and it was also used as a deodorant. To find taramea is to walk the coastal dunes and cliffs. The coastal dune is windy. The taramea grows, spiky clumps of sharp leaves, tall flower stalks swaying. A leaf is crushed. The fragrant resin is released, spicy and sweet. The plant does not know it perfumed the bodies of Māori. It does not know it is a defence. It just wants to not be eaten. A plant that demands respect. Touch it carelessly, and its sting will be felt. Crush a leaf, and the scent will be released. A gift from the spiky plant.