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Carex trifida (Mutton Bird Sedge)

Carex trifida, commonly known as the Mutton Bird Sedge, is an attractive, NZ native, ornamental grass. It features arching, green-gold foliage that develops bronze tones in cooler weather and with age. It typically grows to 80 cm in height and 1 m in width. Carex trifida is commonly used in coastal or rock gardens, included in borders or mixed plantings, mass-planted either as a ground cover or on a bank, or grown in a container. This is an easy-to-grow, versatile, and rewarding plant.

Carex trifida grass plants with blue-green foliage and brown flower heads.
Carex trifida grass plants in pots at The Plant Company nursery with green foliage and brown flower heads.
Carex trifida grass plants in pots at The Plant Company nursery.
The average plant height is 40 cm
$13.80

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Grasses
Height:80 cm
Spread:1.00 m
Flowering time:
Tolerances:Coastal, Hardy, Wet
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?
Maintenance requirements
Growth rate
Also known as
Sku10053

What is the optimum Carex trifida grass spacing?

The optimum spacing for Carex trifida grass plants to merge and become an effective ground cover is 80 cm apart. However, if you want them to grow as a unique plant, they will need to be spaced at least 1.2 metres apart. The spacing for having them merge to a limited degree is 90 cm apart.

What are the landscaping uses for Carex trifida in NZ?

Carex trifida is a popular choice in landscaping projects across NZ. It is commonly mass-planted either as a ground cover or on a bank, included in borders or mixed plantings, or planted around outdoor living areas, such as pools and barbecue areas. This hardy, NZ native grass is also perfect for gardens around commercial buildings that are often somewhat neglected. Carex trifida is favoured by landscape designers across NZ. It is the colourful foliage, tidy form, and versatility of this plant that make it a popular choice in landscaping.

Carex trifida care and maintenance

Carex trifida is a hardy, coarse-leaved sedge that prefers moist, well-drained soils and grows well in full sun to partial shade. Once established, it tolerates wind, salt spray, and dry periods. Minimal maintenance is needed - remove old or damaged leaves in late winter to keep the plant looking fresh. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour and manage spread.

Carex trifida for sale in NZ

The Plant Company has the best Carex trifida plants for sale in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants, and our logistics team packs them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive, and the quality is exceptional. Let us take care of your plant and grass needs and impress you with both our products and services!

What height does Carex trifida grow to?

Carex trifida grows to about 80 cm tall and the same wide, and it will reach this within three years with optimal growing conditions. If the growing conditions are less favourable, the plants may stay smaller and will take longer to reach their mature size.

Questions and Answers

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

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