#woodrush

Growing among at least three different species of moss, high on Ruapehu. Probably L. banksiana but that's not the only Luzula known from Mt. Ruapehu.

A cosmopolitan genus of rush, most common in temperate areas, the temperate regions, the Arctic, and alpine areas in the tropics.

It's not certain where the generic name came from - possibilities include the Italian lucciola ("to shine, sparkle") or the Latin luzulae or luxulae, from lux ("light"), apparently because they with dew. but other definitions of lucciola include 'a mid-summer field', or 'a small place'.

Scientific Name – Luzula sylvatica

Common Name – greater woodrush

Family – Juncaceae

Plant Type – Evergreen perennial

Habit – Arching

Hardiness Zone – USDA Zone 5

Mature Size – Height - 0.7-1.3m - Spread - 1.0-1.5m

Fall/Winter Colour – Yellow

Leaf – Grass-like, linear, serrate

Leaf Arrangement - Basal

Blooming Time/Fruiting Time – June

Flowers – Green

Inflorescences –Panicle 

Water Use – Moderate

Soil – Well-drained, moist

Exposure – Part sun/part shade, filtered shade

Landscape Uses – Groundcover, perennial border, woodland