Northern toetoe
about.
Austroderia splendens | Northern toetoe
A striking coastal plant found in the upper North Island as well as offshore islands. Thriving in full sun on well-drained soils, it is most commonly seen on sand dunes, cliffs, and rocky coastal sites. This majestic grass can reach up to 6 m in height when flowering. Dense, creamy-gold plumes up to 75 cm long appear from September to November, sometimes erect, sometimes arching, creating a spectacular display in its natural habitat. The largest of the toetoe species, forming stout, clumping tussocks that define the coastal landscape.
typical habitat.
coastal scrub
dune forest
coastal forest
dunes
dunefields
cliff faces
shrubland
drainage.
well drained
free draining
sun.
full sun
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 1.5m
width | 2m
pollinators calendar.
flowering | September–November
fruiting | October–March
did you know?
This species can be distinguished from other native Austroderia (toetoe) by the leaf blade, which is densely hairy just above the ligule—the small membrane or fringe at the point where the leaf blade meets the stem.
