About

Carex pendula 'Cool Jazz' is a robust perennial that forms dense clumps, reaching heights of approximately 75 cm and up to 1.5 m when in bloom. Its slender leaves feature creamy white edges and may have occasional narrow stripes along the blade, with the most vivid coloration evident in younger foliage. This plant thrives in shaded areas. Its tall stems support delicate, drooping flower spikes that start off green and gradually change to brown as they mature.

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

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

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 ornamental grasses cultivation, pond plants and bog gardens

Pruning

Remove flower stems to prevent seeding. Cut out any dead foliage as it appears. Can be cut back hard (to 20-30cm) in late winter before the flower stems appear from early March onwards.

Propagation

Propagate by division between mid-spring and early summer

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to aphids damaging stem bases

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free