No images found for this plant ID: 12030.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "12030" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

Safe for Dogs?

Safe for Cats?

Safe for Reptiles?

toetoe

Scientific Name: Cortaderia toetoe

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Toetoe: New Zealand's Majestic Native Grass

Toetoe refers to several species of tall grasses native to New Zealand. While the text mentions "toetoe" often in the context of a brand of toe socks, it also describes the plant itself, particularly Cortaderia richardii.

Common Names

  • Toetoe (often misspelled as "toitoi")
  • Plumed Tussock
  • Cutty Grass (used by children)

Scientific Names

  • Cortaderia richardii (Endl.) Zotov
  • Synonyms: Arundo richardii, Arundo conspicua

Considerations for Children

  • The plant is sometimes called "cutty grass" by children, which might suggest it has sharp edges.

Description and Habitat

  • Toetoe is New Zealand's largest native grass, growing in clumps up to 3 meters (approximately 10 feet) in height.
  • It has a grass-like appearance with tall, arching plumes of creamy color.
  • It is suitable for the back of a border or corner of a garden.

Ecological Role and Uses

  • Used by the Maori people for thatching.
  • The flower stem is called kākaho in Māori.

Quirky Facts

  • The name "cutty grass" suggests that this plant might have sharp edges that children might encounter.

Further Information

  • The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) provides help and information on Cortaderia richardii.