Botanical name:

Carex albula

Common name(s):

White sedge

About:

An erect tufted sedge, typically reaching a diameter of 30 to 45cm, presents an attractive appearance. This plant features a pale green, grassy tussock that notably transforms to a mix of white and green hues during the winter months. Due to its aesthetic qualities and versatility, it is often utilised in landscaping projects and home gardens, serving not only as an elegant edging option but also as effective ground cover.

Natural habitat:

A species of mainly alluvial terraces, colluvial slopes and river flats. It prefers free draining soils and is often a local component of grey scrub communities. Seemingly unpalatable it often persists in paddocks alongside cattle and sheep.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought, Salt, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

South Island in a narrow area from the Mackenzie Basin, Waitaki and Central Otago.

Height: 0.3m

Flowering:

October - December

Fruiting:

October - September

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Pioneer Plantings

How to grow:

Easily grown from the division of whole plants and from fresh seed. Best suited for a well drained, sunny site in dry climates. This species dislikes humidity and soon dies if kept too moist. An unusual sedge well worth cultivating.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete