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

Carex trifida is a perennial sedge (family Cyperaceae) notable for its grass-like habit and tolerance of coastal exposure. It is grown as an ornamental grass or ground cover where moist, well‑drained sandy or loamy soils are available. It suits acidic to neutral soils and will take full sun or partial shade. Flowering occurs from May to July.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Carex trifida

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