[3] The specific epithet derives from the Latin, pectin/pectinis, ("comb-shaped/like a comb"), and refers to the leaves.

[4][5] Oreobolus pectinatus is a perennial sedge which forms dense cushions growing from 10 to 100 mm high.

The stems are densely packed, much branched at base, leafy.

The fruit, a nut, is initially colourless, but matures to a red-brown, almost black color.

[3] It is a coastal to alpine species (found up to 1500 m above sea level), occurring at sea level only in the southern South Island, and on Stewart, Auckland and Campbell Islands.