Rhizome far-extending, ± 3 mm diam. with numerous overlapping fibrous scales. Stems c. 20. cm high, ± = leaves, 3-angled, ± 1 mm diam. Leaves to 2 mm wide, grey-green (when dry), channelled, noticeably scabrid on margins and along lateral nerves on adaxial surface; sheaths grey-brown, some reddish-tinged. Inflorescence incomplete in N.Z. specimen - only one much damaged male spike remaining. Female spikes at least 2-3, erect, lowest ± 1.5 cm × 4 mm, distant on peduncle 3 cm long. Glumes ± = utricles, red-purple, tapered to subemarginate or acute scabrid tip, light brown midrib occasionally scabrid above, produced to a stiff, scabrid awn. Utricles ± 3.5 ×1.5 mm, ovate, ± corky, glabrous, grey with reddish-purple markings, nerves impressed, ± indistinct; beak ± 1 mm long, orifice wide, bidentate. Stigmas 3. (Nut immature.)