Overview
Carex acutiformis is a clump forming, tufted grass like in the genus Carex, part of the Cyperaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Carex acutiformis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, wildflower meadows and low maintenance.
About
Carex acutiformis, commonly known as lesser pond sedge, is a clump-forming, tufted sedge belonging to the genus Carex within the Cyperaceae family. This deciduous, grass-like plant typically reaches 1 to 1.5 metres in height and spread over 2 to 5 years. It thrives in poorly-drained clay or loam soils with a range of pH levels and can grow in full sun or partial shade, favouring south-, west-, or east-facing aspects. Carex acutiformis is suited to both exposed and sheltered locations, making it a versatile choice for aquatic or boggy garden areas with seasonal interest in summer and 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 4.0 — Carex
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
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Carex acutiformis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like, Aquatic, Bogs
- Habit
- Clump forming, Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadows, Low Maintenance
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Carex acutiformis
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Carex acutiformis?
Carex acutiformis prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Carex acutiformis need?
Carex acutiformis 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 acutiformis grow?
Carex acutiformis reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Carex acutiformis hardy in the UK?
Carex acutiformis has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Carex acutiformis?
Seed, Division.
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