Luzula rufa


Luzula rufa, or red woodrush, is a species of rush that is endemic to New Zealand.

Description

Luzula rufa is perennial. Its growth pattern is scattered and grass-like, with long thin stems. The inflorescence is a single head, with one to three clusters. The tepals and the capsules are red brown, and get darker as the plant ages.

Range and habitat

This plant grows across New Zealand on all three main islands and the Chatham Islands.

Ecology

It grows together with Dracophyllum and Celmisia in alpine communities.

Etymology

rufa is a reference to the colour of the plant, and means 'rusty'.

Taxonomy

Luzula rufa contains the following varieties:
  • Luzula rufa var. albicomans
  • Luzula rufa var. ''rufa''