Austroderia

Description

Austroderia, commonly known as toetoe or New Zealand pampas grass, is a genus of tall, perennial grasses that are native to New Zealand and parts of South America. The plant is characterized by its tall, reed-like appearance and ability to thrive in wet conditions. It grows in large clumps and can reach heights of up to 5 metres.

Taxonomic Information

Domain: Eukarya
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Spermatophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Poales
Family: Poaceae
Genus: Austroderia

Appearance

Austroderia has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to 3 metres in length. The leaves are blue-green in colour and have pointed tips. The plant produces tall, erect stems that can grow up to 5 metres in height. The stems are topped with large, fluffy plumes of flowers that can be up to 60 centimetres long. The flowers are usually white or cream in colour.

Care Guide

Water: Austroderia thrives in wet conditions and should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.
Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but can benefit from occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Austroderia prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Austroderia is hardy in zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Austroderia is generally not prone to pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in wet conditions.

Habitat

Austroderia is native to wetlands, wet meadows and coastal regions in New Zealand and parts of South America. It is often found growing in large clumps along rivers, streams and lakes.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Austroderia be grown in containers?
A: While Austroderia can be grown in containers, it is not recommended as the plant can grow quite large and requires a lot of water.

Q: How often should Austroderia be fertilized?
A: Austroderia does not require regular fertilization, but can benefit from occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Is Austroderia deer-resistant?
A: Austroderia is not known to be deer-resistant.

Q: How fast does Austroderia grow?
A: Austroderia can grow quite quickly in the right conditions, and can reach heights of up to 5 metres.

Related Plants

• Cortaderia
• Chusquea
• Arundo

References

• “Austroderia.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed 5 March 2022. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/austroderia-richardii/
• “Austroderia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 5 March 2022. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/17435/austroderia/details
• “Austroderia – Toetoe.” Landscape Architect’s Pages. Accessed 5 March 2022. https://www.landscapearchitect.co.nz/natives/austroderia.html