Carex elata ‘Aurea’
(KARE-eks ee-LAY-tah)
syn. Carex stricta ‘Aurea’

Family: Cyperaceae

Common name: Bowles’ golden sedge
Zone: 5 – 9
Height: 18-24 in (45-60cm)
Spread: 24-36 in (60-90cm)
Aspect: full sun; partial to full shade
Soil: fertile; moist
Water: regular

 

Description: A slow growing, evergreen perennial grass with a tuft-forming habit. Narrow, bright yellow leaves with a thin edging of dark green form a pleasing arching fountain shape. Less sun results in a more lime green leaf colour. Small black flower spikes appear on erect stems in early summer.

 

Special Notes: This cultivar was discovered by E. A. Bowles growing wild in a garden in Norfolk, England. A low maintenance grass which also grows well in containers. Preference is for moister areas such as beside ponds or in boggy areas. Relatively few pests and disease problems. Deer resistant. Will self seed but sporadically. In late winter of early spring, cut leaf blades back to 8 – 12 inches (20 – 30 cm) in height, preferably just as new green growth starts to appear. DO NOT cut tips of new growth at the risk of stopping their growth. Propagate by division in early spring or autumn.

 

RHS Award of Garden Merit 1993; Great Plant Pick 2002

 

Posted on March 12, 2013; updated on October 9, 2024