Overview
Carex paniculata is a clump forming, tufted grass like in the genus Carex, part of the Cyperaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Carex paniculata 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, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, rock garden, low maintenance and flower borders and beds. It is native to Eur. to Cauc. & Macaronesia.
About
Carex paniculata is a robust sedge that thrives in wetland environments, often forming a noticeable 'trunk' as it grows, resembling a miniature weeping tree. This plant can attain a height of up to 1.5 meters, featuring elongated, arching leaves that remain green year-round, except during extreme cold. In summer, it produces subtle flower spikes that are not particularly prominent.
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
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Carex paniculata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Clump forming, Tufted
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds
- Native to
- Eur. to Cauc. & Macaronesia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Carex paniculata
- Cultivation
- Grow in permanently wet soil or shallow water, in good light
- Pruning
- No pruning required, though old leaves from the base can be cleared if desired
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, or by division in early summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Carex paniculata?
Grow in permanently wet soil or shallow water, in good light.
Where is the best place to plant Carex paniculata?
Carex paniculata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Carex paniculata need?
Carex paniculata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay and loam. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays poorly-drained.
How do I prune Carex paniculata?
No pruning required, though old leaves from the base can be cleared if desired.
How big does Carex paniculata grow?
Carex paniculata reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Carex paniculata hardy in the UK?
Carex paniculata has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Carex paniculata?
Propagate by seed, or by division in early summer.