Carex flagellifera

Carex flagellifera is also called the Flagellate Sedge, probably because of its long and thin curly leaves resembling 'whips'. Its colour is more bronze than red, which is very ornamental throughout the year. It is distinguished by its floral stems that resemble leaves. They elongate with fruit growth, and eventually lie down in a tangled mass on the ground. It is appreciated in the garden for its somewhat wild mane-like appearance and its muted colour of aged metal. Simply surround it with orange flowers for a sumptuous combination!

Carex flagellifera (synonym Carex lucida) belongs to the Cyperaceae family, native to New Zealand. This perennial has a grass-like appearance. It forms somewhat loose, fairly rigid, widely spreading clumps, reaching a height of about 75cm (30in) and a diameter of 40cm (16in). The evergreen foliage is similar in appearance to Carex buchananii and Carex testacea, taking the shape of a "whip". Its basal sheathing leaves are long, thin, linear, with tapered edges, and slightly spiralled. From spring to summer, their colour is a mix of brown and bronze. With cool autumn nights, they take on slightly coppery hues. In June-July, short brown to black spikes, from 1 to 3cm (1in), discreetly appear, carried by thin stems about 70cm (28in) tall, barely emerging from the foliage. These floral stems then elongate and spread on the ground. As with all Carex species, this plant is monoecious, producing separate male and female flowers, but on the same individual.

We grow this sedge in a well-exposed grass garden on a south-facing embankment. It is an endearing and versatile 'grass' that adapts to any well-drained soil. This resilient perennial can be used in challenging areas such as in urban gardens as ground cover, where it can play a significant role in soil stabilisation on embankments. It is also a good plant for containers, to be placed on balconies or patios. Carex flagellifera marks its space with its yellow-green and orange mane, even on a sunny winter day, under a low, yellow sun. Imagine a beautiful winter scene dominated by the "daughters of the wind": this flagellate sedge will look phenomenal accompanied by grasses like Stipa tenuifolia or capillata, Muhlenbergia capillaris, and blue oat grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens), with clumps interspersed with small evergreen shrubs like heathers or germander oak. When planted en masse along a path or alley, it will emphasise and soften the layout, whether in a contemporary or rural garden.

With 1000 species of sedge growing worldwide, you are sure to find one that suits your garden. They can be found in all environments where plants grow. Some adapt very easily to many situations and any garden soil, while others must be cultivated in their specific environment. Make your choice!