Flora of New Zealand Series

Dense red tufts to ± 30 cm high. Leaves concavo-convex, tips twisted when dry, sheaths ± 3 times wider than lamina. Female spikes 3-4, very dark red, ± 5 cm × 5 mm, lowest usually distant on stiff peduncles. Glumes light brown. Utricles almost black. Stigmas 3.

N. Kaimanawa Range. S. Nelson; Marlborough; Canterbury; Westland National Park; North and Central Otago. St. Montane to subalpine stream banks, river flats or tussock grassland.