Overview

Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) is a clump forming grass like in the genus Carex, part of the Cyperaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental grass and pond edge planting.

About

Carex acuta 'Variegata' (variegated slender-tufted sedge) is a clump-forming, deciduous herbaceous perennial in the Cyperaceae family. This grass-like plant grows to between 0.5 and 1 metre in height and spread, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. It thrives in full sun or partial shade on a variety of soil types including clay and loam, tolerating acid, alkaline, and neutral pH, and prefers poorly-drained conditions. Suitable for all garden aspects and exposures, it provides seasonal interest from spring through winter.

About the genus

Carex is a vast genus of over 2,000 species of grass-like plants in the family Cyperaceae, commonly known as sedges. Other members of the family Cyperaceae are also called sedges; however, those of genus Carex may be called true sedges. Carex is the most species-rich genus in the family.

Wikipedia contributors, "Carex", CC BY-SA 4.0Carex

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Carex

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Poorly-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass Like, Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Ornamental grass, Pond edge planting

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v)

Propagation
Division, Seed
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v)?

Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) need?

Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) grows best in clay and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays poorly-drained.

How big does Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) grow?

Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) hardy in the UK?

Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v) has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Carex acuta 'Variegata' (v)?

Division, Seed.