Hero Image

Plant Guide

Return to Main Soil Drainage Requirements

Carex Testacea

  • Common Name
    Orange New Zealand Sedge
  • CA Native
    Non-native
  • Plant Type
    Grass or grass-like plant
  • Size
    2' x 18"
  • Flower Color
    N / A
  • Bloom Time
    • Spring
  • Leaves
    fine textured, bronzey/orange
  • Evergreen
    Evergreen
  • Deer Resistant
    Rarely Damaged
  • Wildlife Value
    • Seed and Fruit for Birds
  • Growth Rate
    Moderate
  • Hardiness
    Hardy
  • Adverse Growth Factors
    None
  • Special Features
    • Erosion Control
    • Fall Color
    • Low Maintenance
    • Specimen
  • Water Use
    • Low
    • Moderate
  • Soil pH
    6.5-7.5 (neutral)
  • Exposure
    • Full Sun
    • Partial Shade
  • Soil Type
    Not Particular
  • Drainage
    Well Drained
  • Description and Cultural Plant Tips

    This sedge is graceful and full but it is primarily notable for it’s luscious color.  It is a gorgeous olive green/orange densely tufted and elegantly arching plant.  The color intensifies in full sun and provides year round pleasure.  This is one of New Zealand’s hardiest and most drought tolerant sedges.  It likes well-drained soil and doesn’t like to dry out completely.  It looks gorgeous spilling over rocks or walls and should be placed where the sun will offer its best opportunity to highlight it’s colors.

  • Master Gardener Comments

    This is a stunning plant as an accent or grouped in a luscious swath of color, particularly on a sunny slope.  It also makes a wonderful container specimen.  Propagate by seed or division.

  • Varietals
    N / A