Carex divulsa

Sunset

Zones 2B, 3-9, 11-24, 28-43

Partial

Moderate

Berkeley Sedge
Cyperaceae
Ground covers, Ornamental grasses and grasslike plants

CAREX

Large group of grasslike, clumping plants found worldwide and grown for foliage effect in borders, rock gardens, containers, water gardens (flowers are generally insignificant); some are used as lawn substitutes, as large-scale ground covers, or for erosion control. Long, narrow evergreen leaves are often striped or oddly colored. Specialists offer many varieties. Although characteristically found in damp soils, many sedges will grow under relatively dry conditions in cultivation. Many are short lived in gardens so are used as annuals.

Carex divulsa

Widely sold as the California native C. tumulicola, this popular sedge is actually from Europe. Forms arching clumps to 1 1/2 ft. high and 2 ft.wide with spikes of greenish flowers from winter to spring. Shear flowers when they begin to brown with age to keep plants tidy and prevent reseeding. Best in partial shade and with regular water, but grows well under a wide range of conditions. Fine ground cover.