There are a number of native plant species that are common in dune ecosystems in New Zealand. they are:
- Ficinia (Desmoschoenus) spiralis (pingao, pikao, golden sand sedge)
- Spinifex sericeus (spinifex)
- Coprosma acerosa (sand coprosma)
- Pimelea arenaria (sand daphne)
- Carex pumila (sand sedge - see photo to the right)
- Austrofestuca littoralis (sand tussock)
The most common exotic plant species associated with dunes in New Zealand is:
- Ammophila arenaria (marram grass)
Ficinia (Desmoschoenus) spiralis (Pingao, right) and Spinifex sericeus (spinifex, left) at Parengarenga harbour, Northland. Photos by John Sawyer.
For more information see*:
- Coastal foredunes in Wellington (DOC factsheet)
- Pingao - Watch the TV6 - Meet the Locals (DOC) video
*The Network is not responsible for the content of external internet sites