Contents
Description
Carex Testacea, commonly known as Orange New Zealand Sedge, is an evergreen, clump-forming ornamental grass that is native to New Zealand. It belongs to the family Cyperaceae and is a popular choice for landscaping and garden designs. This grass has a unique orange-bronze color that adds texture and contrast to any garden. Its foliage is thin and wiry, growing in a dense, upright tuft that can reach up to 18 inches in height and 24 inches in width. Its flowers are insignificant and are often concealed by the foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Carex |
Appearance
Carex Testacea has a unique orange-bronze color that adds texture and contrast to any garden. Its foliage is thin and wiry, growing in a dense, upright tuft that can reach up to 18 inches in height and 24 inches in width. Its leaves are narrow, arching, and can grow up to 8 inches in length. Its flowers are insignificant and are often concealed by the foliage. In the fall and winter, the foliage turns a deep orange-brown color, adding interest to the winter landscape.
Care Guide
Water
Carex Testacea requires moderate watering during the growing season. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate periods of drought. However, it is important not to overwater this grass, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Carex Testacea is not necessary, as it can thrive in poor soil conditions. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can promote healthy growth.
Soil
Carex Testacea prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.
Sunlight
Carex Testacea prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may become leggy and less vibrant in color.
Hardiness Zones
Carex Testacea is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carex Testacea is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Carex Testacea is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in open grasslands, rocky slopes, and forest margins. It prefers moist soil conditions and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Carex Testacea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Carex Testacea can be grown in containers. It is important to use well-draining soil and ensure that the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Carex Testacea attract wildlife?
A: Carex Testacea is not known to attract wildlife, as its flowers are insignificant and it does not produce any fruit.
Q: How often should Carex Testacea be fertilized?
A: Carex Testacea does not require regular fertilization. Adding a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can promote healthy growth.
Q: How tall does Carex Testacea grow?
A: Carex Testacea can reach up to 18 inches in height and 24 inches in width.
Related Plants
- Carex oshimensis
- Carex comans
- Carex pansa
- Carex buchananii
References
- “Carex Testacea – Orange Sedge.” Gardenia. Accessed September 7, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/carex-testacea-orange-sedge.
- “Carex Testacea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 7, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277682&isprofile=0.
- “Carex Testacea.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 7, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/94965/Carex-testacea/Details.
