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Orange Sedge

If you’re searching for a vibrant and resilient addition to your garden, look no further than orange sedge (Carex testacea). This stunning grass features striking orange-hued foliage that gracefully sways in the breeze, adding both texture and a pop of color to your landscape. Native to New Zealand, Carex testacea thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces with low-maintenance yet visually appealing plants.

Carex testacea

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Carex testacea, commonly known as the Orange Sedge, is a striking New Zealand native grass-like sedge characterised by its fine, arching foliage that turns a coppery-orange hue when grown in full sun. This clump-forming plant thrives in a range of conditions, from coastal gardens to dry banks and borders. It performs best in full sun and well-drained soil but will tolerate partial shade and moderate drought. Carex testacea adds bold colour and texture to landscapes year-round and is excellent for mass planting or containers.

Orange foliage on Carex testacea.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Grasses
  • Height:
    50 cm
  • Spread:
    50 cm
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Hardy, Wet, Wind
  • Garden uses:
    Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
  • Garden styles:
    Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native
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Carex testacea

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Characteristics of Orange Sedge

The orange sedge is known for its unique, arching blades that can grow up to 60 cm long. The foliage transitions beautifully from bright orange in the warmer months to a more subdued tone in cooler seasons, providing year-round interest in your garden. This plant is particularly drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for those trying to conserve water or those with busy lifestyles.

When placed in well-draining soil, Carex testacea can flourish in a variety of environments, from coastal gardens to more mountainous areas. Its adaptability means that you can integrate it into both planting schemes and functional garden beds or use it as an eye-catching borders.

Planting and Care Tips

To cultivate your orange sedge successfully, choose a sunny to partially shaded location with well-drained soil. While Carex testacea is hardy and can tolerate a range of conditions, it thrives when watered regularly during dry spells. Regular trimming will encourage fresh growth and keep the foliage looking its best. It’s also beneficial to remove any brown leaves to maintain its attractive appearance.

For those seeking a unique garden design, consider pairing orange sedge with other ornamental grasses such as Carex comans Bronze or Carex comans Red to create a visually stunning arrangement. The warm tones of these grasses complement the vibrant hue of orange sedge beautifully.

Companion Plants

Creating a harmonious plant combination can elevate your garden design. Orange sedge works well with an array of other native plants. For instance, combining it with Uncinia rubra adds a contrasting texture and color that enhances the overall scenic effect of your garden.

Another fantastic choice is Liriope Silver Ribbon, which offers a silvery-green tint that beautifully offsets the orange blades of your sedge. Alternatively, consider adding the unique foliage of Carex Frosted Curls or Baumea tenax to create an engaging, multi-dimensional landscape that thrives while requiring minimal upkeep.

Conclusion

Incorporating Carex testacea, or orange sedge, into your garden not only elevates its aesthetic appeal but also enhances its ecological value. With its adaptability, low-maintenance requirements, and stunning appearance, this grass is an ideal choice for any gardening enthusiast. Explore our selection today and discover how orange sedge can transform your outdoor living space into a vibrant sanctuary.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Corokia Bronze King and Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant) are popular for a reason, but it’s plants like Cercis canadensis Hearts of Gold (Redbud), Hibiscus Red Heart, and Albizia Red Silk (Mimosa Tree) that create a truly unique garden.
–The Plant Company

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