Chionochloa Rigida
Chionochloa rigida (Wire/Rigid Tussock)
Common Names: Wire tussock, Rigid tussock, Snow tussock (rigida)
Family: Poaceae (Grasses)
Origin: New Zealand (South Island uplands)
Plant Type: Evergreen perennial tussock grass
Overview:
A tough, fine-textured native tussock forming dense, graceful mounds. Chionochloa rigida thrives in exposed, free-draining sites and brings year-round structure with airy seedheads in late summer to autumn. Ideal for low-care, water-wise, coastal and high-country plantings.
Key Features:
Foliage: Fine, arching blades; olive to blue-green, taking on golden tones in dry/cold conditions
Flowers/Fruit: Open tan-bronze panicles late summer–autumn, held above foliage for movement and texture
Form & Habit: Dense, upright to slightly arching tussock; clean architectural silhouette
Growth Rate: Moderate once established; long-lived
Cultural or Ecological Value: Habitat/cover for invertebrates and lizards; restoration and erosion control
Mature Size:
|
Attribute |
Size |
|
Height (foliage) |
0.8–1.2 m |
|
Height (in flower) |
up to ~1.4–1.6 m |
|
Spread |
0.8–1.0 m |
|
Form |
Dense, upright/arching tussock |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
|
Requirement |
Detail |
|
Light |
Full sun (best colour/flowering); light shade tolerated |
|
Water |
Low to moderate once established; drought-tolerant |
|
Soil |
Free-draining sands/loams/gravel; avoid boggy/heavy, water-logged sites |
|
pH Range |
Slightly acidic to neutral |
|
Frost Tolerance |
Very hardy; excellent wind and coastal tolerance |
Landscaping & Garden Uses:
Dry, low-maintenance borders and mass planting
Naturalistic/native schemes and restoration
Coastal, windy, and exposed sites
Banking/erosion control and gravel gardens
Contrast with broadleaf natives and flowering perennials
Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: Do not hard-cut; “comb” out old leaves and spent stems in late winter
Watering: Water to establish (first season); minimal thereafter except in extreme drought
Feeding: Usually unnecessary; optional light native-safe slow-release feed in spring if growth lags
Pests & Diseases: Generally trouble-free in open, dry sites; avoid poor drainage
Additional Tips: Dislikes root disturbance—plant and leave
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
A characteristic South Island upland tussock that unifies large landscapes with rhythm and movement, bringing seasonal seedhead drama with very low maintenance.
Why Choose Chionochloa rigida?
Exceptionally hardy native for wind, frost, and lean soils; delivers year-round structure with minimal care—ideal for contemporary and naturalistic designs.
Pot Size:
Large 9 cm square pots.
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
