About
Carex acuta 'Variegata' is a clump-forming perennial that loses its leaves in winter. It features narrow, fragrant leaves with cream-colored variegation and dark green margins. In late spring through summer, tall spikes bear dark brown flowers that rise above the foliage. This plant thrives in moist or boggy conditions within the garden.
About the genus
Carex encompasses both deciduous and evergreen species, characterized by their rhizomatous or tufted growth habits. These perennials feature triangular stems topped with linear or strap-like foliage, and they produce spikes that can be either short or elongated, adorned with small green or brown flowers.
Growing conditions
- 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
- 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
- Cottage and informal garden
- Fragrance
- Foliage
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, poorly-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Grows well at the edge of ponds or streams. May have the potential to become a nuisance if not kept in check
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free