Versatile use of the bird's foot sedge
Ornamental grasses embellish every garden. Sedges, which belong to the sour grass family, are particularly robust and easy to care for. Carex ornithopoda variegata belongs to the low species with a maximum height of 35cm. The resemblance of the seed heads to birds' feet contributed to the German name. In general, the genus Carex is distinguished from other ornamental grasses by its triangular culms. Narrow leaves look like fountains with water trickling down in an arch. Carex grass forms clumps with basal rosettes. In rock gardens it looks best in solitary positions or in groups.
Characteristics of Carex ornithopoda variegata
Green white stripes with yellowish edges give the bird's foot sedge a high ornamental value. Semi-shady to shady positions with well-drained soil provide ideal conditions for vigorous growth. From March to May, spike-like, brown-yellow inflorescences tower above the foliage. Because Carex is hardy, you can safely do without protection from icy cold. The evergreen sedge does not need pruning.
Inspiration for designing with Carex
- Area planting: The compact growth of Carex is a prerequisite for its use as a ground cover. 12 plants per sqm guarantee a carpet-like spread. Dense leaf heads cover the ground completely and do not allow bare patches to show through.
- Accompanying planting for garden paths: With sedges planted on one or both sides at the edge, the pathway is visually enhanced. The overhanging leaves take the stringency out of straight paths.
- Representative frame for noble plants: Selected perennials and shrubs are shown off to their best advantage with a dignified border. Like roses, for example, which look even more elegant in a border of Carex grass.
- Create riparian zones: Whether it's a stream, pond or lake, sedges create a harmonious transition to the lawn or flowerbeds.
- Pot culture: Alternatively, Carex grass grows excellently in containers. Either alone in a slender planter or hanging in a hanging basket. In contrast, Carex forms an attractive fusion with summer flowering plants. Fuchsias, for example, which prefer similar conditions to the bird's foot sedge, provide the colour contrast. Both species feel at home in light shade and favour humus-rich substrate.
In which gardens does Carex grass fit?
Thanks to its adaptability, the bird's-foot sedge cooperates with almost any ambience. The plants are popular for purist gardens with a clear structure. Grasses bring calm to the green space and blend in with the simplicity of the elements. Carex gives the garden a modern touch. On the other hand, Carex likes to join colourful perennials, such as Echinacea, and accentuate special areas in the near-natural garden as an accessory.
Carex ornithopoda variegata is an evergreen grass that grows very densely in clumps and can be planted perfectly as a ground cover. The bicoloured leaves show a great contrast between a fresh green and a bright white. They grow up to 25 - 35cm long and are suitable for both area planting and as ground cover. It is best to plant the bird's foot sedge in a shady location in a humus-rich soil. The arching overhanging growth looks very filigree. The Carex ornithopoda variegata is frost hardy down to -20 degrees.
The plants are grown in pots, so you can use these plants all year round.
