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Carex chathamica

Densely tufted, clump-forming, evergreen perennial sedge, about 45cm tall, with strong stems and broad metallic blue-green leaves, silvery beneath. Produces large, terminal, brown flower spikes, during summer

Synonyms
Carex trifida 'Chathamica'
Carex trifida chathamica

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Chalk
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Blue Green Grey Silver
Summer Brown Blue Green Grey Silver
Autumn Blue Green Grey Silver
Winter Blue Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Cyperaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming, Tufted
Genus

Carex can be deciduous or evergreen, rhizomatous or tufted perennials, with triangular stems bearing linear or strap-shaped leaves and short or long spikes of tiny green or brown flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Chatham Islands

How to grow

Cultivation

Suits a range of soils including well-drained and moist but well-drained soil in full sun. See ornamental grasses cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by seed in early spring or by division in mid spring to early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut out any dead leaves on evergreen species in summer

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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