Carex buchananii – Leatherleaf Sedge

A tufted perennial evergreen sedge from New Zealand, Carex buchananii has slender, orange-bronze leaves curved at the tips and looks particularly good when back-lit by the sun. Shimmering in the slightest breeze, it forms a lovely contrast to almost any flower, especially purple, blue and magenta. Brown flower spikes appear in late summer. Leatherleaf Sedge is a short-lived plant, but easily replaced, as it self-seeds, though not incontinently. An excellent container plant.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Any reasonably well drained soil, moist soil preferred
Position: Full sun; tolerates light shade
Season of Interest: Spring, summer, autumn, winter
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 2’6” (75cm)  Spread: 12’6” (75cm)