Festuca novae-zealandiae or hard tussock is endemic to the North, South and Stewart Islands from the Kaimanawa and Ruahine Ranges southwards. It is found in montane to subalpine regions from sea-level upwards, but mostly above 330m asl to 1200m asl., in tussockland, open shrubland and rock outcrops. It is a fairly common component of low-tussock grassland, particularly in the high country, but is quite often overlooked for garden use. It is an erect, densely tufted, tawny tussock that grows to 50-60cm tall, green to slightly greyish leaves that are rough to touch when stroked downwards, but smooth when stroked upwards. It is a very hardy tussock that will tolerate considerable amounts of drought and exposure, making it useful for very difficult sites. Although it grows well in more favourable sites, it will loose its character if you treat it too well. It flowers from November to December that are followed by seed from January to February.