Rough Saw-Sedge

(Gahnia aspera)

Rough Saw-Sedge (Gahnia aspera)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Gahnia aspera, commonly known as rough saw-sedge or round sawsedge, is a tussock-forming perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including wet sclerophyll forests, coastal swamps, and heathlands in eastern Australia, as well as occurring in Malaysia, New Guinea, and Pacific islands. It typically grows to a height of 20-39 inches (50-100 cm) with a similar spread, featuring tough, strap-like leaves and producing inflorescences of small, creamy flowers in spring and summer. The flowers are not particularly showy but are followed by distinctive shiny red-brown nuts that add visual interest to the plant.

Rough saw-sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in a range of garden settings, particularly in moist soils and part shade to full sun conditions. It is often used for habitat restoration, erosion control, and as a garden ornamental, providing shelter and food for small birds and insects. While it prefers moist, well-drained soils, it can tolerate periods of dryness once established. It is generally low-maintenance but can be trimmed back if it becomes too untidy. In cultivation outside its native range, care should be taken as it has the potential to become invasive.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1.75-3.25 feet
  • Width: 1.75-5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wet sclerophyll forests, coastal swamps, and heathlands

Other Names

Common Names: Saw Sedge, Cutting Grass, Rough Saw-sedge

Scientific Names: , Gahnia aspera, Cladium asperum, Lampocarya aspera, Mariscus asper, Mariscus aspera,

GBIF Accepted Name: