Story: Grasslands

Spinifex (3rd of 3)

Spinifex

Spinifex sericeus (often just called spinifex) is the most important native sand-binding grass in New Zealand. It is found mainly in the dunelands of the North Island and around Nelson and Marlborough. In the past, specimens were collected much further south, from Canterbury and around Dunedin. Spinifex favours dunes immediately behind the beach. It can tolerate high winds, salt spray and shifting sands.

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Landcare Research – Manaaki Whenua

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How to cite this page:

Alan F. Mark, 'Grasslands - Tussock grasslands', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/13338/spinifex (accessed 25 April 2024)

Story by Alan F. Mark, published 24 Sep 2007