Carex trifida (mutton-bird sedge) — perennial

Overview

Carex trifida is a perennial in the genus Carex, part of the Cyperaceae family. Carex trifida grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include groundcover, ornamental grass and coastal gardens. It is native to Macquarie Island (Australia), South Island (New Zealand), Antipodes Islands, Chatham Islands (New Zealand), southern Chile and Falkland Islands.

About the genus

Carex is a vast genus of over 2,000 species of grass-like plants in the family Cyperaceae, commonly known as sedges. Other members of the family Cyperaceae are also called sedges; however, those of genus Carex may be called true sedges. Carex is the most species-rich genus in the family.

Wikipedia contributors, "Carex", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Carex

In the garden

Carex trifida is a perennial sedge in the family Cyperaceae native to Macquarie Island (Australia), New Zealand’s South, the Antipodes and Chatham Islands, southern Chile and the Falkland Islands. Its origin in cool, maritime locations explains its aptitude for coastal conditions and makes it a candidate where a grass-like ground cover is required. Site it in full sun or partial shade on well‑drained sandy or loamy soil that is kept reliably moist; it prefers an acid to neutral pH. In UK hardiness terms it is H5 (hardy), so it tolerates typical British winters when sited appropriately for exposure. Allowing consistent moisture without waterlogging will suit the plant’s requirements. In the garden use Carex trifida as a ground cover for coastal gardens, as an ornamental grass in mixed beds, or to give texture to maritime borders. Flowers are produced from May to July, providing a seasonal change in the planting. Positioning plants where they can receive some shelter from the fiercest salt-laden winds will help establish them in exposed maritime sites.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Carex

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, sandy, loamy
Soil pH: acidic, neutral
Soil moisture: moist
Exposure: coastal
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Carex trifida size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: groundcover, ornamental grass, coastal gardens
Native to: Macquarie Island (Australia), South Island (New Zealand), Antipodes Islands, Chatham Islands (New Zealand), southern Chile, Falkland Islands

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Carex trifida

Cultivation: Prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates coastal conditions; plant in full sun to partial shade.
Pruning: Cut back old foliage in early spring to encourage new growth.
Propagation: Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but less common.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Carex trifida?

Prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates coastal conditions; plant in full sun to partial shade.

Where is the best place to plant Carex trifida?

Carex trifida prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits coastal positions.

What soil does Carex trifida need?

Carex trifida is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including well-drained, sandy and loamy. It prefers acidic and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Carex trifida?

Cut back old foliage in early spring to encourage new growth.

Is Carex trifida hardy in the UK?

Carex trifida has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.