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Carex testacea (Orange Sedge)

5 from 3 customers

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.
Carex testacea growing in a garden.
Casading brown and red foliage on Carex testacea.
Large Carex testacea in a garden with cascading orange and brown leaves.
The average plant height is 30 cm
$13.65
The average plant height is 20 cm
$13.98
The average plant height is 25 cm
$14.95

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Grasses
Height:50 cm
Spread:50 cm
Flowering time:
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
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known as
Sku10052

What is the optimum Carex testacea grass spacing?

The optimum Carex testacea grass spacing for the plants to merge and become an effective ground cover is 30-40 cm apart. However, if you want them to grow as a unique plant, they will need to be spaced at least 70 cm apart. The spacing for having them merge to a limited degree is 40-50 cm apart.

Why Choose Carex testacea?

This variety is prized for its striking copper foliage and compact, tidy habit. It is drought-tolerant once established and suits borders, rock gardens, and container planting. The fine-textured leaves provide year-round colour and interest, enhancing the beauty of any garden.

Planting and Care Tips for Carex testacea (Orange Sedge)

Plant Carex testacea in full sun to encourage its rich orange tones, though it will also tolerate partial shade. Choose a well-drained site, as it dislikes overly wet conditions. Space plants about 40-50 cm apart for mass planting. Water regularly during establishment, but once settled, it is fairly drought-tolerant. Trim back old foliage in late winter to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage fresh growth. Divide clumps every few years if needed.

What are the Carex testacea common names?

The common names for Carex testacea include Speckled sedge, New Zealand sedge, Orange New Zealand sedge, orange sedge, and orange-green sedge.

Why Buy Carex testacea From The Plant Company?

The Plant Company offers premium, NZ-grown Carex testacea plants that are healthy, vigorous, and ready to thrive in your landscape. Our plants are carefully cultivated for strong root development and vibrant colour. With expert advice and fast, reliable nationwide delivery, we make it easy to create beautiful, low-maintenance gardens with confidence. Trust The Plant Company for quality you can count on.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Carex testacea? We are here to help.

Good morning - please could you advise me on carex Testacea - do I trim it back each year to encourage new growth, or just leave it be? We have mass bank plantings of this and Tahota, and before i order grasses from you to do another project, i just want to be sure im caring for them - thank you

Normally you don't cut them back but you can if they become too large and untidy. Spring is the best time to do any cutting back.

Reviews

5 from 3 customers
Roger Long - Canterbury

Beautiful plants, great communication, far better pricing than anyone else online, and fast delivery - what else could we need? My wife and I love dealing with you guys and appreciate all your efforts. Businesses that are passionate and care about their customers are hard to come by these days.

Sarah Williamson - Wellington

Thanks for sending well-grown plants and all the advice.

Melanie White - Auckland

Well packed, strong & heathy plants, and we got them 2 days after we ordered.

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