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Grass LikeAquaticBogs

Carex panicea

carnation sedge

Robust, clump-forming, gradually spreading, deciduous or semi-evergreen perennial sedge, about 30cm tall, with blue-green foliage. Carries dainty purplish-black flower spikes to 30cm long within the foliage, in summer

Other common names
hesgen benigen-ddail

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Blue Green
Summer Purple Black Blue Green
Autumn Blue Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Cyperaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous or 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

Tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions in full sun or part shade. Grow in waterside locations, boggy or wet soils and any moist but well drained or well-drained soils. See ornamental grasses cultivation, bog gardening and pond plants

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
  • Wildlife gardens
Pruning

No pruning required, tidy if possible as the foliage dies down at the end of the growing season

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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