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Carex spectabilis - Showy Sedge

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Carex spectabilis is a remarkable ornamental grass that earns its common name, Showy Sedge, through its lush and vivid green leaves. This North American native perennial gives an instant feeling of verdant richness to any landscape setting, producing dense clusters of long, ribbon-like leaves that create an elegant cascading effect. The Showy Sedge is known for its striking, pestle-like brown flower spikes, which bloom in the late spring through the early summer, adding an unexpected element of interest. Brave against frost conditions, it retains its rich colour and texture year-round making it an attractive choice for a robust, low-maintenance garden. Rooted in its preference for consistently moist and well-drained soils, it thrives under the shelter of full sun to partial shade, reaching up to 24-30 inches in height and width. With its versatile expression, Carex spectabilis is well-suited to rock gardens, water features or even erosion control on slopes, delivering dynamic presence and hardiness with an easy-care appeal.

  • Size: Up to 24-30 inches tall and wide
  • Flowers: Brown flower spikes
  • Foliage: Long, ribbon-like, green leaves
  • Water usage: Requires consistently moist soils
  • Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Hardiness: Tolerates frost conditions and provides year-round color and texture
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