Grasses, Sedges, Tussock, Carex, etc
These plants add texture, can define a space, and add movement and colour in a garden. Often called architectural plants, they come in a range of types, colours, forms, heights, some are stiff and formal, others more casual. Many are native to NZ.

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aka Slender Sweet Flag

Evergreen perennial that looks a little bit like a cross between and Iris and a grass. The leaves are attractively striped in shades of chartreuse and cream. The foliage is unusually aromatic. Ideal for planting in bog gardens or at the edge of ponds to a depth of 20cm. Prefers sun.

 

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aka Sweet Flag

Sweet Flag. This little perennial from Japan forms a clump of flattened green leaves with cream margins on short rhizomes both of which have a sweet cinnamon fragrance, especially when dried. Ideal for boggy spots or at pond/stream edges. Quite hardy and easy to grow. Semi-evergreen.

 

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aka NZ Iris

A native perennial with narrow spears of bronze green foliage that turns orange-brown in winter. Wiry stems of dainty white 'butterfly' flowers appear in spring and summer. Prefers a semi-shaded position and acid soil. Evergreen.

 

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aka Mat Rush

This little perennial is a firm favourite in Australia where it is found naturally in coastal areas. Blue-grey needles of arching foliage that form a robust clump. Small, fragrant yellow flowers in summer. Looks best planted en masse. Tolerant of drought once established. Evergreen.

Lomandra likes the sun but is tolerant of some shade. Can be cut back really hard to encourage new growth if required.

 

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This variegated Lomandra is beautiful and soft with small yellow flowers from April to October. The lightly coloured foliage provides great contrast in the garden. Handles full sun but prefers light to moderate shade. Tolerant of drought and frost. Avoid wet feet.