Carex albula

©2000
Frosty Curl sedge

syn. Carex 'Frosty Curls'

FROSTY CURL SEDGE
Family: Cyperaceae

Pronounced: KAH-reks

GROWING GUIDE

Geographic Origin: New Zealand.
Plant Group: Sedges.
Hardiness: Sunset zones: 2b-9, 14-24. USDA zones: 7-9. Heat zones: 9-7.
Mature size: Height: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm).
Leaf attributes: Silver-white, evergreen foliage with a slight curl. Dan Hinkley, of Heronswood, calls it "a symphonic movement in pewter."
Growth habit: Clump forming.
Light: Full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Any soil.
Propagation Methods: Sow at 55°F in early spring; seed will come true. | Divide mid-spring to early summer.
Pruning Methods: Run a rake through the sedge in late winter, to pull out old grass.

Rainy Side Notes

To see a mass planting of Carex albula is to see flowing waves of movement like water. Planting Frosty curl sedge on a slope or over a rock wall will set the plant off to its best advantage and mimic water flowing over a waterfall. This beautiful sedge would be a wonderful addition to almost any garden.

Carex albula self-sows politely.

Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.

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