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 Carex morrowi 'Ice dance'

Japanese sedge 

 Scientific name: Carex morrowi 'Ice dance'

Common name: Variegated Japanese sedge, Japanese sedge, Morrow's sedge

Region of origin: Japan


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Highlights:

Weed Suppressive Rating: Fair - Good

Hardiness: Zones 6-9

Height x Spread: About 12 in. x 12 to 18 in.

Season of bloom: Early to mid-spring

Flower color: Brown

Exposure: Shade

Soil requirements: Organically rich, fertile soil

Moisture requirements: Moist soil

Physical description: This plant has a grass-like habit and forms a dense, compact tuft. It may reach 12 in. or more in height in very fertile soil, and 12 to 18 in. wide. The semi-evergreen leaves are flat, thick, and reach 12 in. long and ¼ in. wide. They are dark green with narrow white edges. Flowering occurs in early to mid-spring, and the brown, short-lived flowers are clustered in groups of four to six. It is important to note that flowers are non-ornamental.

Optimal growing conditions: Japanese sedge performs best in shade; this unusual trait is not common for true ornamental grasses. It does well in organically rich soils with high fertility, but is not very drought tolerant; watering during the summer can be useful. Winter hardiness: Zones 6 to 9.

Susceptibility to pests and diseases: Japanese sedge has no serious disease or insect problems.

Use: This ornamental grass is a good selection for the front of shade borders or shady rock gardens.

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