Growing Carex testacea (Orange Sedge)

Pronunciation: kar'eks 

Carex testacea is a New Zealand native and hardy for Zones 7-10S&W, with fine, olive green foliage that takes on coppery orange highlights in full sun, where it performs best. This graceful Sedge is ideal for cascading over rock walls, edging a pond, or as the focal point of a large container planting. Must be treated as an annual in cold climates.

Light/Watering: Carex testacea has the best color in full sun and prefers evenly moist soil, so water during dry periods.

Fertilizer/Soil and pH: Orange Sedge is very adaptable but will thrive in fertile, humus-rich, moist soil with pH mildly acidic or close to neutral. In containers you will need to fertilize every 2 weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer mixed at half strength.

Pests/Diseases: No notable pests or diseases.

Companions: Attractive in mixed annual container gardens or interplant with summer and fall-blooming perennials at the front of the border.

For information on planting and care of annuals, click here