Flora of New Zealand Series

Loose tufts to 35 cm high. Leaves < stems. Inflorescence 1.5-4 cm long, green or pale brown, of 3-5 ± distant sessile spikes, utricles widely spreading when ripe and individual spikes stellate. Male flowers at base of spikes. Stigmas 2.

N. Scattered; more common on Mt Egmont, Volcanic Plateau and Ruahine Range. S. Almost throughout; not known from Marlborough. St. Lowland to subalpine, in boggy ground on stream banks. (Europe, Asia, N. America, Australia)

The star-shaped arrangement of the mature spreading utricles is clearly seen when plants are viewed from above.