1866. S. Hannaford, `Wild Flowers of Tasmania,' p. 80:
"It is a wiry-stemmed plant, with small mop-like tufts, which hold water like a sponge. This is <i>Bellotia Eriophorum</i>, the specific name derived from its resemblance to the cotton-grass. Harvey mentions its colonial name as `<i>Tagrag and Bobtail</i>,' and if it will enable collectors the more easily to recognise it, let it be retained."
<hw>Taiaha</hw>, <i>n</i>. a Maori word for a chief's walking-staff, a sign of office, sometimes used in fighting, like a quarterstaff.
1845. E. J. Wakefield, `Adventures in New Zealand,' vol. i. p. 139:
"The men are placed at equal intervals along either side to paddle, and they keep excellent stroke to the song of two leaders, who stand up and recite short alternate sentences, giving the time with the taiaha, or long wooden spear. The taiaha is rather a long-handled club than a spear. It is generally made of manuka, a very hard, dark, close-grained and heavy wood. The taiaha is about six feet long, etc."
1851. Mrs. Wilson, `New Zealand,' p. 46:
"The taiaha is rather a long-handled club than a spear."
1855. Rev. R. Taylor, `Te Ika a Maui,' p. 299:
"A taiaha, or chiefs staff."
1881. J. L. Campbell, `Poenamo,' p. 80: