Dwarf woodrush Luzula celata

Key Features

  • A small, low-growing woodrush that forms cushion-like tufts in open habitats. The leaves are up to 3 cm long but only 1 mm wide, with folded bases and pointed tips, and are hairy on the margins only. Flowering stems are even shorter than the leaves, with a single terminal cluster of inconspicuous flowers.

Distribution and Habitat

  • South Island, east of the main divide, in open, shingly habitats (e.g. sand hollows, river terraces, tarn margins). Often found growing in Raoulia (scabweed) mats.

Threats

  • Habitat modification and loss, including afforestation.
  • Competition with exotic plants.

Management Opportunities

  • Survey for new locations.
  • Mark known sites.
  • Protection of habitat.
  • Weed control.
  • Re-establish at appropriate sites within plantation forests.

Monitoring Options

  • Check existing populations annually.
  • Report new locations to DOC, NZPCN.

Further Information and Support

  • New Zealand Plant Conservation Network (NZPCN). http://www.nzpcn.org.nz
  • Weed management - Department of Conservation, Regional Councils.
  • References:
    • Moore, L.B. & Edgar, E. (1976). Flora of New Zealand. Volume II. Government Printer, Wellington.