Flora of New Zealand Series

subsp. polyphylla (Hack.) Edgar, N.Z. J. Bot. 24: 452 (1986)

≡P. polyphylla Hack., T.N.Z.I. 35: 383 (1903)

≡P. anceps var. polyphylla (Hack.) Zotov, T.R.S.N.Z. 73: 236 (1943)

≡P. polyphylla Hack.forma polyphylla (autonym Hackel 1903 op. cit. p. 383 

Lectotype: W 9646! T. F. C[heeseman] Kermadec Islands, N.E. from New Zealand [Aug. 1887] (No 1444 to Hackel) (designated by Edgar 1986 op. cit. p. 452).

=P. polyphylla forma compacta Hack., T.N.Z.I. 35: 383 (1903); 

Holotype: W 9648! R. H. Shakespear Kermadec Islands, N.E. from N.Z. (No 1445 to Hackel).

Loose tufts, with trailing culms, equalled or overtopped by numerous dull green leaves. Leaf-sheath glabrous. Leaf-blade 6.5-20 cm × 1-2.5 mm, adaxially densely minutely papillose or glabrous, minutely pubescent-scabrid just above ligule; margins sparsely ciliate near ligule and scabrid near tip. Culm (7)-20-30-(70) cm. Panicle (3.5)-5-15 cm, contracted, ± oblong, with few, stiff, erect branches, or slightly more open with finer branches. Spikelets 4.5-5.5 mm, 3-4-flowered. Lower glume 2-3.5 mm, (1)-3-nerved. Lemma 5-nerved, acute or occasionally apiculate, internerves glabrous. Anthers c. 1.5 mm. Caryopsis c. 1.5 × 0.5 mm. 2 n = 28.

K.: On coastal cliffs and roadside banks.

Endemic.