kōwhangatara

Spinifex sericeus | kōwhangatara, spinifex

Spinifex is New Zealand’s most important native sand-binding grass, growing along the foredunes immediately behind the beach. With its long trailing runners, hairy silver-green leaves, and ball-like seed heads, it thrives in the harshest coastal conditions — shifting sand, salt spray, high winds, and blazing sun. Its vigorous rhizomes trap sand and hold it in place, giving dunes the strength to buffer both the force of the sea and water flowing from the land.

In coastal gardens and dune restorations, Spinifex is prized for its resilience and spreading habit. It quickly colonises raw sand, stabilising banks or exposed sites, and pairs well with other foredune natives such as pingao (Ficinia spiralis) and rauparaha (Calystegia soldanella)