Carex montana
soft-leaved sedge
A short, deciduous sedge with bright, apple-green arching leaves becoming orange-bronze in autumn. It grows to around 20cm and spreads to form a carpet similar to grass. Very dark brown flowerheads with yellow pollen on stiff wiry stems, develop in summer
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Bronze Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Cyperaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- 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
- Europe to Siberia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained soil in good light
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or by division in early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildflower meadow
- Low Maintenance
- Ground cover
Pruning
No pruning required, though old leaves from the base can be cleared if desired
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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