Carex testacea
sedge
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: July to August
- Hardiness: frost hardy (will need winter protection)
From spring to autumn the pale olive-green leaves of this evergreen sedge turn a warm coppery-orange through the winter. In midsummer small, brown flower spikes emerge. Tolerant of light shade, this New Zealand sedge will produce its best foliage in full sun. Grow it among other grasses or perennials, as a specimen plant, or in a large pot.
This ornamental sedge is evergreen - comb or rake-off old, degraded or dead leaves and flowers in spring. As required, evergreen sedges can be cut back (up to 50%) any time from April to July but not in autumn or winter. Lift and divide established clumps to maintain vigour.