This plant is commonly found growing on the edges of lagoons and waterways. It is distinguished by its long, vertical flower spikes and strap-like green leaves. From October to January, new shoots emerge from the base. During April and May the shoots produce a yellow pollen.

The soft white part of the young shoot is edible. The flower spikes produce a yellow pollen. In some areas, the pollen was shaken from the flower stalks, collected and made into a rough flour that could be baked as small cakes. The brown and white down or fluff from the flowering spike . . .