Overview

Carex morrowii 'Variegata' is a perennial in the genus Carex, part of the Cyperaceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Carex morrowii 'Variegata' grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include groundcover, borders and shade gardens. It is native to Japan.

About

Carex morrowii 'Variegata' is a perennial sedge valued for its variegated leaves, reaching about 0.6 m. It tolerates full sun to full shade and prefers moist but well-drained sandy, loamy or clay soils. Rated H7 (fully hardy) and suitable in USDA zones 5–9, it originates from Japan. Use it as ground cover, in borders or in shade gardens where variegation lifts darker planting pockets.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Carex morrowii

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

In the garden

Carex morrowii 'Variegata' is a perennial sedge native to Japan, selected for its variegated foliage rather than its flowers. Plants typically reach around 0.6 m and suit sites where leaf colour is the main feature. Flowering occurs from May to July, but the variegated blades are the primary ornamental interest. Plant in sun or dense shade; this cultivar accepts the full range of light from full sun to full shade. It will grow in sandy, loamy or clay soils provided they remain moist but well drained — avoid permanently waterlogged hollows. Hardiness is H7, which means it is fully hardy in the UK and corresponds to USDA zones 5–9, so it withstands typical British winter conditions without additional winter protection. Use Carex morrowii 'Variegata' as a low ground cover beneath trees and shrubs, along shaded borders, or to brighten a darker corner of a mixed planting. Its compact stature makes it suitable where a neat, variegated ground layer is wanted. Flowers appear between May and July while the variegated foliage continues to define the plant's place in the border.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Carex

Sunlight

Full sun, Full shade

Soil type

Sandy, Loamy, Clay

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

UK hardiness

H7

Plant details

Carex morrowii 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Perennial

Height

0.6 m

Suggested uses

Groundcover, Borders, Shade gardens

Native to

Japan

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Carex morrowii 'Variegata'

Cultivation

Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates shade and sun; avoid waterlogged conditions

Pruning

Cut back old foliage in early spring to encourage fresh growth

Propagation

Division in spring or autumn

Frequently asked questions