Carex secta (Purei, Swamp Sedge) is a robust, perennial sedge native to New Zealand, typically growing to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters (3 to 5 feet) with a spread of up to 1 meter (3 feet) in width. Its long, narrow, green leaves are stiff and can form dense tufts, providing excellent ground cover. The plant thrives in moist, wetland conditions, often found in swamps, marshes, and along riverbanks. Carex secta prefers well-drained, but also waterlogged soils and is tolerant of both full sun and partial shade. Its rich green foliage can turn yellowish-brown in the winter months, but it remains attractive year-round. In summer, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are arranged in clusters and have a brownish tint. This sedge is highly valued for its ecological importance in stabilizing soils and providing shelter for wildlife, and it has a traditional use in Māori weaving for crafting various woven goods.