[1] The rhizomatous perennial herb grass-like sedge typically grows to a height of 0.3 to 2 metres (1.0 to 6.6 ft) and has a tufted habit.

[2] The species was first formally described by the botanist Robert Brown in the work Prodromus Florae Novae Hollandiae et Insulae Van Diemen that was published in 1810.

[6] In Western Australia, it is found along creeks and streams in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Gascoyne, Mid West and Goldfields-Esperance regions where it grows in sandy-clay alluvium often around limestone.

[2] It will grow well in full sun to part shade in well-drained soils but can need watering in summer when cultivated.

[8] In Victoria, the species was once found in the Grampians and around Swan Hill but no specimens have been collected in 1913 and it is now possibly extinct in these areas.