About

Carex panicea is a sturdy, clump-forming perennial sedge that can spread gradually. It typically reaches a height of around 30 cm and features blue-green leaves. During the summer months, this plant produces slender flower spikes that can extend up to 30 cm, displaying purplish-black blooms nestled among the foliage. It can be either deciduous or semi-evergreen, depending on the growing conditions.

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, Poorly-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Grass Like, Aquatic, Bogs
Habit
Clump forming, Tufted
Foliage
Deciduous, Semi evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions in full sun or part shade. Grow in waterside locations, boggy or wet soils and any moist but well drained or well-drained soils. See ornamental grasses cultivation, bog gardening and pond plants
Pruning
No pruning required, tidy if possible as the foliage dies down at the end of the growing season
Propagation
Propagate by seed in early spring or by division in mid spring to early summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free