Overview

Carex elata 'Aurea' is a clump-forming, tufted perennial in the genus Carex, part of the Cyperaceae family, with evergreen, deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Carex elata 'Aurea' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include water gardens, margins of ponds and moist borders. It is native to Europe.

About

Carex elata, is a species of tussock-forming, grass-like plant in the Cyperaceae family. It is native to all of Europe, the Atlas Mountains of Africa, Turkey, Iran and Central Asia.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Carex elata

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
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Wet
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Carex elata 'Aurea' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Perennial
Habit
Clump-forming, Tufted
Foliage
Evergreen, Deciduous
Height
1.2 m
Suggested uses
Water gardens, Margins of ponds, Moist borders
Native to
Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Carex elata 'Aurea'

Cultivation
Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerates wet conditions; best in full sun to partial shade
Pruning
Cut back old foliage in early spring before new growth appears
Propagation
Division in spring or autumn
Pest resistance
Aphids
Disease resistance
Rust

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Carex elata 'Aurea'?

Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerates wet conditions; best in full sun to partial shade.

Where is the best place to plant Carex elata 'Aurea'?

Carex elata 'Aurea' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Carex elata 'Aurea' need?

Carex elata 'Aurea' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.

How do I prune Carex elata 'Aurea'?

Cut back old foliage in early spring before new growth appears.

How big does Carex elata 'Aurea' grow?

Carex elata 'Aurea' reaches a height of 1.2 m.

Is Carex elata 'Aurea' hardy in the UK?

Carex elata 'Aurea' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Carex elata 'Aurea'?

Division in spring or autumn.

From the Fenn Plants journal

More in the Carex genus

Browse all Carex →