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CAREX
Commonly known as Leatherleaf sedge
Vast genus of over 1,800 species of deciduous or evergreen, rhizomatous or tufted perennials from temperate and arctic zones as well as high altitudes in tropical regions.
Excellent as a foundation for planting schemes as there is a sedge for almost every site in the garden. The grass-like flower spikes are an added attraction.
Plants of bog, moorland or damp woodland.
UK natives, C. pendula (Drooping sedge) and C. sylvatica (Wood sedge), where not translocated, are a marker of ancient woodland.
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EvergreenLeaves to 45cm (18in) long.
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Height50-75cm (20-30in)
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Spread90cm (36in)
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Ornamental grassesDensely tufted perennial of symmetrical, arching habit. Produces brown flower spikes 0.5-3cm (¼-1¼in) long, on lax stems to 50cm (20in) long.
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Hardy - average winterHardy through most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude and central/northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -10°C (14°F)
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Full sun
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Partial shade
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Additional FeaturesPests & DiseasesAphidsPlace of originNew Zealand
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HardinessFrost hardy (down to -5)
Buy Varieties of CAREX
![© Burncoose Nurseries, all pictures for illustrative purposes only. CAREX comans 'Frosted Curls'](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/products/squaremedium/carex_comans_frosted_curls_904.jpg)
CAREX comans 'Frosted Curls'
silver grey with curled leaves forming a graceful hummock
![© Burncoose Nurseries, all pictures for illustrative purposes only. CAREX 'Ice Dance'](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/products/squaremedium/carex_ice_dance.jpg)
CAREX 'Ice Dance'
glossy green leaves edged with white
![© Burncoose Nurseries, all pictures for illustrative purposes only. CAREX oshimensis 'Everest'](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/products/squaremedium/carex_everest_6016i.jpg)
CAREX oshimensis 'Everest'
deep green leaves with well-defined white margins
![Royal Horticultural Society 'Award of Garden Merit' (AGM) AWARD](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/misc/agm_large.png)
![© Burncoose Nurseries, all pictures for illustrative purposes only. CAREX oshimensis 'Evergold'](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/products/squaremedium/carex_oshimensis_evergold_906a.jpg)
CAREX oshimensis 'Evergold'
bright gold and green foliage
![© Burncoose Nurseries, all pictures for illustrative purposes only. CAREX oshimensis 'Everillo'](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/products/squaremedium/carex_everillo_5890~1.jpg)
CAREX oshimensis 'Everillo'
lime-green leaves ageing to yellow
![© Burncoose Nurseries, all pictures for illustrative purposes only. CAREX testacea](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/products/squaremedium/carex_testacea_5310s.jpg)
CAREX testacea
pale olive-green leaves turning orange-brown where the surfaces receive full light
Useful extras...
![](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/products/squaremedium/Vitax_Q4_6202.jpg)
![](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/products/squaremedium/rootgrow_6203.jpg)
![](https://www.burncoose.co.uk/site/img/products/squaremedium/empathy-allpurpose_6208.jpg)