Overview

Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' is a clump forming, tufted grass like in the genus Carex, part of the Cyperaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden and patio and container plants.

About

Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' is a robust, clumping evergreen sedge that reaches heights of 30 to 45 cm. Its lush, vibrant green foliage provides a solid backdrop in the garden. In summer, it produces subtle greenish-brown flower spikes that emerge from among the leaves.

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

Best soil and position for Carex

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass Like
Habit
Clump forming, Tufted
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants
Toxicity
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Carex morrowii 'Irish Green'

Cultivation
Grow in fertile moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. See ornamental grasses cultivation
Pruning
Cut out any dead leaves on evergreen species in summer
Propagation
Propagate by division in mid spring to early summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Carex morrowii 'Irish Green'?

Grow in fertile moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. See ornamental grasses cultivation.

Where is the best place to plant Carex morrowii 'Irish Green'?

Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' need?

Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

How do I prune Carex morrowii 'Irish Green'?

Cut out any dead leaves on evergreen species in summer.

How big does Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' grow?

Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' hardy in the UK?

Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' has a UK hardiness rating of H7.

How do I propagate Carex morrowii 'Irish Green'?

Propagate by division in mid spring to early summer.

Is Carex morrowii 'Irish Green' toxic?

Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.