About
Carex ornithopoda 'Variegata' is a low-growing, evergreen sedge that forms dense clumps, reaching a height of approximately 20 cm. It features arching leaves that are glossy with white variegation and green edges. In mid to late spring, this plant produces brown flower spikes that emerge from among the foliage.
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
- 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
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
- 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
Care notes
- 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