Carex flava
hedgehog grass
A clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial with toothed, mid to pale green strap-shaped foliage which prefers a damp, boggy location. Spikes of green to orange-brown flowers with bristly pale yellow to green bracts appear from June to July
Synonyms
Carex patula
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Orange Brown | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Cyperaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Semi 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
How to grow
Cultivation
Prefers moist, poorly-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Grows well at the edge of ponds or streams
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required but dead leaves or flowers can be removed in the spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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