Matamat: A Native Sedge Worth Knowing About
If you’re looking to add authentic native plants to your garden and live in the right place, matamat (Rhynchospora corymbosa) might just be the under-the-radar sedge you’ve been searching for. This perennial grass-like plant brings native authenticity to landscapes in some very specific corners of the world.
What Exactly Is Matamat?
Matamat is a perennial sedge that belongs to the Cyperaceae family—think of it as a grass-like cousin that’s perfectly content living in wetter conditions. You might also see it listed under its former scientific name, Scirpus corymbosus, but don’t let that confuse you. It’s the same plant, just with updated botanical nomenclature.
As a sedge, matamat has that characteristic grass-like appearance but with some subtle differences that plant enthusiasts love to spot. It’s one of those plants that adds authentic native character without shouting for attention.
Where Does Matamat Call Home?
Here’s where things get interesting—matamat has a rather exclusive address list. This sedge is native to the Pacific Basin (excluding Hawaii) and Puerto Rico. If you’re gardening in Guam, Palau, or Puerto Rico, you’re in luck! This is one plant that truly belongs in your neighborhood.
Why Consider Matamat for Your Garden?
There are several compelling reasons to give matamat a spot in your native plant collection:
- True Native Status: If you’re in its native range, you’re supporting local ecosystems by choosing plants that naturally belong there
- Water-Wise Adaptability: With its facultative wetland status, matamat is comfortable in both wet and somewhat drier conditions—talk about flexibility!
- Low-Maintenance Perennial: Once established, perennial sedges typically require minimal fussing
- Authentic Island Landscaping: Perfect for creating authentic tropical and subtropical landscapes
The Ideal Garden Settings
Given its facultative wetland status, matamat works beautifully in:
- Rain gardens and bioswales
- Native plant gardens
- Naturalized landscapes
- Areas with seasonal moisture variation
- Restoration projects in appropriate regions
Growing Matamat Successfully
While specific growing information for matamat is limited in readily available sources, its wetland status gives us some valuable clues about its preferences:
Moisture: As a facultative wetland plant, matamat appreciates consistent moisture but can tolerate periods of drier conditions. Think of it as preferring moist but not soggy conditions.
Location: Since this is a tropical/subtropical native, it’s best suited for warm climate gardens in its native regions.
Maintenance: Like most native sedges, matamat likely requires minimal maintenance once established in appropriate conditions.
A Word of Caution
Here’s the important part: matamat is only appropriate for gardeners in its native range—namely Guam, Palau, and Puerto Rico. If you’re gardening elsewhere, this isn’t the plant for you. Instead, seek out sedges and grass-like plants that are native to your specific region.
The Bottom Line
Matamat represents the kind of authentic native plant that serious native gardeners dream about—especially if you’re lucky enough to live in the Pacific Basin or Puerto Rico. While information about this specific sedge is somewhat limited, its native status and wetland adaptability make it a plant worth seeking out for appropriate regional gardens.
If you’re in matamat’s native range, consider adding this perennial sedge to your collection of authentic native plants. Your local ecosystem—and future generations of native plant enthusiasts—will thank you for choosing plants that truly belong.
