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.
comans. New Zealand. Exceptionally finely textured, both leaves and flowering stems being reduced to 1' to 1½' long threads, pale and somewhat greyish green in color, curling at the tips. There is some question about material we have received as ‘Frosty Curls’ (it may or may not be a clonal selection). However, it seems more compact than other forms I have tried.
flagellifera. New Zealand. An elegant sedge, useful in a variety of settings. It makes dense clumps with extremely narrow leaves up to 18" long. They are heavily tinted with bronze in the warmer months, adding beautiful pink and orange shades in winter.
testacea. New Zealand. There are other bronze sedges, but most have struck me as looking a bit muddy (the sort of thing that makes people ask, Is that plant alive?). This one is bright and cheery the year round. It makes elegant fountains 1-2' tall of very narrow, shiny leaves, copper colored in winter and orange and green in the warmer months.