raupō

Typha orientalis | raupō, bullrush

 

A vigorous, erect New Zealand native grass thriving in shallow, fertile waters like sheltered lakes, swamps, and streams, growing up to one meter deep. Typically reaching 2.5m tall and 1m wide, its spreading roots quickly colonise larger areas. Recognisable by its distinctive brown, sausage-shaped seed heads on long stalks, raupō is crucial for wetland and riparian plantings. It reproduces by seed. Raupō is increasingly utilised in engineered wetlands designed for water purification. These constructed wetlands effectively treat contaminated water sources such as stormwater runoff, sewage, and effluent from mining operations and agricultural animal waste. 

streamsides

wetland

lake margin

bog margin

wet

full sun

height | 2.5m

width | 1m

flowering |  December - February

fruiting | March - June

Harakeke aside, raupō was likely the most utilised plant by Māori. Today, it's primarily known for poi making. Historically, its leaves were, and occasionally still are, used for whare thatching. The starchy rhizomes served as a food source, and its abundant pollen was collected, mixed with water, and baked into cakes.