Carex virgata (Swamp Sedge / Native Sedge) is a robust, upright New Zealand native sedge, perfect for wet and boggy areas. It forms dense clumps and adds a strong architectural element to landscapes.
 
Description
Clump-forming native sedge with upright, arching green leaves
Dense tufts growing up to 1–1.5 metres high
Produces small brown flower spikes in spring–summer
Evergreen and long-lived
Naturally found in wetlands, swamps, and river margins
 
Growing Conditions
Thrives in full sun to partial shade
Prefers consistently moist to wet soils; tolerates waterlogging
Frost and wind hardy
Low maintenance; remove old or dead leaves if desired
Ideal for ecological restoration and native plantings
 
Uses in Landscaping
Perfect for pond edges, swales, and wetland gardens
Excellent for erosion control and bank stabilization
Adds architectural form and texture to landscapes
Suitable for mass planting in naturalistic designs
Common in public parks, commercial landscapes, and restoration projects