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Baumea tenax (Bumblebee Nut Sedge)

Baumea tenax, commonly known as the Bumblebee Nut Sedge, is an attractive and fast-growing plant with rigid, dark green foliage. It can be identified by the orange nuts which have a black band around the centre, akin to a Bumblebee. It typically grows to 1 m in height and 1.5 m in width. Baumea tenax is commonly used in landscaping and revegetation projects, where it is mass-planted.

Baumea tenax plants growing in water.

Baumea tenax is currently unavailable, but we do have other other amazing species and varieties of Baumea available.

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Why? Our plants are subject to seasonality and high-demand. Please contact us if you would like to know when it becomes available again.

Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Grasses
Height:1.00 m
Spread:1.50 m
Flowering time:
Tolerances:Coastal, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses:Borders, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles:Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known as
Sku10022

Growing Baumea tenax Successfully in NZ

Baumea tenax is a tough, upright native sedge that thrives in damp to wet soils and full sun to partial shade. It is ideal for wetlands, pond edges, and erosion control on moist sites. Plant in soil that stays consistently moist, and water regularly during the establishment period. Once established, it tolerates seasonal dryness and poor soils. This hardy plant requires minimal care and is perfect for ecological restoration and low-maintenance native landscapes.

Baumea tenax Care Tips

Baumea tenax is a resilient, low-maintenance sedge that requires minimal care once established. It thrives in damp soils and tolerates full sun to partial shade. Water regularly during the first growing season to develop strong roots, especially in drier areas. Trim back dead or damaged foliage annually to maintain the plant's tidy appearance. It does not require fertiliser and performs well in poor soils, making it ideal for wetland restoration and erosion control.

Plant Size and Spacing

Baumea tenax typically grows 1 to 1.2 metres tall and forms dense, upright clumps around 60 to 80 cm wide. When planting for mass coverage or erosion control, space plants approximately 50 to 70 cm apart. This allows enough room for the clumps to spread naturally while still forming an effective barrier or ground cover over time.

Why Buy Baumea tenax from The Plant Company

The Plant Company supplies top-quality, eco-sourced Baumea tenax plants grown to thrive in New Zealand conditions. Our plants are nursery-raised, disease-free, and ideal for wetland restoration, erosion control, or native landscaping. With expert advice and reliable nationwide delivery, you can trust The Plant Company to help you establish healthy, resilient native plantings.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Baumea tenax? We are here to help.

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