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Description
Carex Testacea Prairie Fire, also known as Orange New Zealand Sedge, is a clump-forming evergreen ornamental grass that is native to New Zealand. It is a popular landscaping plant due to its striking orange-red color and unique texture. This grass typically grows up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide, making it a great choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Carex |
Appearance
Carex Testacea Prairie Fire has narrow, arching leaves that are a vibrant orange-red color. The leaves are about 1/4 inch wide and up to 12 inches long. The foliage forms a dense clump that is about 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. In early summer, the plant produces slender stems that rise above the foliage and bear small, inconspicuous flowers.
Care Guide
To keep Carex Testacea Prairie Fire healthy and looking its best, follow these care guidelines:Water: This plant prefers consistently moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for ornamental grasses.Soil: This grass prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Carex Testacea Prairie Fire prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.Hardiness Zones: This grass is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carex Testacea Prairie Fire is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, which can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Treat spider mites by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Carex Testacea Prairie Fire is native to New Zealand, where it grows in moist, lowland areas. In cultivation, it prefers similar conditions, such as moist soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Carex Testacea Prairie Fire deer resistant?
A: Yes, this grass is generally deer resistant.Q: Can Carex Testacea Prairie Fire be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this grass is well-suited for container gardening.Q: How often should I fertilize Carex Testacea Prairie Fire?
A: Fertilize the plant once in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for ornamental grasses.Q: Does Carex Testacea Prairie Fire require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, this grass is relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for.
Related Plants
- Carex morrowii ‘Ice Dance’
- Carex oshimensis ‘Evergold’
- Carex comans ‘Bronze’
- Carex buchananii ‘Red Rooster’
References
- RHS Plants. (n.d.). Carex Testacea Prairie Fire. Retrieved July 8, 2021, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/155792/Carex-testacea-Prairie-Fire/Details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Carex Testacea Prairie Fire. Retrieved July 8, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c543
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Carex Testacea Prairie Fire. Retrieved July 8, 2021, from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/carex-testacea-prairie-fire
