Carex testacea Lime Shine

Carex testacea 'Lime Shine' is a new variety of sedge that is particularly bright in spring. This medium-sized grass forms a dense and flexible clump like a head of hair, with thread-like and shiny leaves that evolve from lime green in spring to orange as the season progresses. In winter, its partially dry and blonde foliage remains quite decorative in natural scenes. Perennial and hardy, this sedge thrives in sunny, well-drained soil in rockeries or raised beds where it performs wonderfully. It adapts well to container gardening and can be used to enhance a large flower pot or a basin on a contemporary-style patio.

Carex testaceae, also known as Orange Sedge, belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to New Zealand, where it is often planted on highway medians. However, in our climate, this grass will require a bit more attention. It needs a sunny exposure, sheltered from cold and dry winds, and well-drained soil that is not too dry in summer, but does not retain too much moisture in winter. Under these conditions, it will be hardy down to -15°C (5°F). It is an herbaceous perennial plant with stoloniferous rhizomes.

The 'Lime Shine' cultivar was selected for its unique spring foliage colour. In the span of 4 to 5 years, 'Lime Shine' forms a dense, slightly trailing clump, reaching a height of 50cm (20in) and a width of 40cm (16in). Its foliage is evergreen depending on the severity of winter. It consists of long, thread-like leaves with slightly twisted tips. Their spring colour is acid green, sometimes almost yellow in very sunny situations. They gradually turn orange over time. The flowering is discreet, occurring in summer in the form of stalks bearing tiny, drooping, scale-like greenish-brown spikes. The seeds, dispersed by the wind, can self-sow in the garden.

Carex testacea 'Lime Shine' thrives in well-drained soil without excess limestone. Plant it in raised beds, sandy soils, or in a not too dry rockery in summer. Its colours bring the garden to life, even at the end of a sunny winter day. This versatile perennial can be used in urban gardens as ground cover, or on embankments where it can play a significant role in soil stabilisation. It is also a good plant for containers, to be placed on a balcony or patio. Low-maintenance and water-efficient, it can be combined with other grasses (such as Stipa tenuifolia or S. capillata, Muhlenbergia capillaris) as well as perennials like dwarf Gaura and Verbena bonariensis. It will be particularly decorative when paired with orange flowers like Echinacea 'Marmalade' and E. 'Tangerine Dream'. When planted en masse along a path or alley, it will emphasise and soften the layout. For a wild effect, plant it in groups, in a contemporary or rustic garden.

There are 1000 species of sedges found worldwide, so 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 need to be grown in their specific research area. Make your choice!