Carex albula

There are general threats to plant species in the native range of this species e.g., habitats loss, spread of invasive exotic species, grazing and recreational use but these do not appear to present direct threats to the taxon. This species is a strongly caespitose, rhizomatous species which fruits for a long period and seems to possess good resilience to disturbance, being often found on roadsides and degraded native tussock grasslands. Seemingly unpalatable to livestock, the taxon is often found in abundance in pastures, and tolerates grazing by rabbit, trampling, aridity and possibly fires (Williams 1980, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment 2008, New Zealand Plant Conservation Network 2008).

The taxon occurs in protected areas in parts of its native range. In Tasmania, the taxon is declared as a noxious weed and measures are taken to control spread and eradicate existing populations. Although listed as noxious weed-naturalized garden escape by the Global compendium of weeds, this species is widely sold and used as an ornamental and landscaping plant, in New Zealand, Australia, the USA and Europe.