About

Carex pendula is a robust, grass-like perennial that produces substantial clumps reaching heights of up to 1.5 meters. It features narrow, pleated leaves in a deep green hue and has elongated stems that support delicate, arching flower spikes.

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
Clay, Loam, Chalk, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Poorly-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Aquatic, Bogs, Grass Like
Habit
Clump forming, Tufted
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
1-1.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native to
Europe to Afghanistan, Macaronesia

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moist or wet soil in sun or partial shade. Will tolerate drier soils but will not grow as tall. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. For more information see pendulous sedge
Pruning
Remove flower stems to prevent seeding. Cut out any dead foliage as it appears
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in autumn, or by division from mid-spring to early summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to aphids damaging stem bases
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free