CAREX. Sedge. Worldwide, but mostly in temperate regions. A huge group of generally rugged, undemanding perennials. Now that a wave of grass and sedge insanity seems to be dying down, we all have a chance to scrutinize them more closely and separate the best from the rest (we are still a good distance from the end point in this process). The sedges generally resemble the grasses, except in their flowering heads, and are compatible with them in the landscape. The following form dense basal clumps or mats of shoots with narrow, arching leaves. These give a fountain--like effect. Clusters of tiny, chaffy flowers borne on slender stems above the leaves—usually in summer—are mildly decorative. Various selections are useful in borders, as drifts on banks or in poolside plantings. Sun or part shade, reasonably well drained soil, moderate to regular watering. Hardiness varies, but may be assumed to be 15oF or less.
elata ‘Bowles’ Golden’. This is one of the brightest of the yellow sedges. According to exposure, soil and watering, it may grow from 8" to over 2' high, though always in a dense, spreading hummock. The leaves are almost uniformly yellow, developing narrow dark green margins as they mature. The flowers are tan and uninteresting. This is one of the water-loving sedges, most at home beside a pond or stream.
glauca. Blue sedge. Europe, widespread. A low, matting species with bright bluish green leaves and stems 6-10" long.
ornithopoda ‘Variegata’. Bird’s foot sedge. This is one of the tidiest of the smaller sedges, making hummocks only 6-10" high. The leaves are quite narrow, and delicate in appearance. Each has a central cream-colored band with fine deep green borders. This is a well-behaved sedge, for shady nooks, rock gardens and mixed plantings in large pots.