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Hair-like sedge

Carex capillaris · Cyperaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant hair-like sedge: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Evergreen, fine and filamentous
Flowering
Spring to early summer (April-June)
Mature size
15-30 cm tall, 20-40 cm spread
Growth
Slow to moderate
Hardiness
Very good, down to -30°C
Origin
Mountainous regions of Europe and Asia
Soil type
Well-drained, dry to moderately moist
Exposure
Sun to partial shade

Care

Moderate watering

Carex capillaris appreciates moist but well-drained soil, especially during establishment. Once established, it tolerates relative dryness and needs little watering, except during prolonged hot spells. Avoid waterlogging, which promotes root rot.

Optimal exposure

This plant develops ideally in full sun or partial shade. It copes well with the partial shade of wooded or shaded gardens. In very hot climates, partial shade limits the drying out of fine foliage.

Soil preparation

Choose well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil. Carex capillaris doesn't require significant enrichment and adapts to chalky, siliceous or slightly acidic soils. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage if your soil is compacted.

Pruning and maintenance

Cut back dried foliage in late winter or early spring, just before new growth. Regular combing removes dead leaves. No severe pruning needed, as this grass naturally maintains a compact and graceful form.

Light feeding

This undemanding plant needs virtually no fertilizer. A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient if the soil is very depleted. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes overly lush foliage at the expense of compactness.

Health and prevention

Carex capillaris is very robust and rarely affected by disease. Good drainage and air circulation prevent any risk of root rot. If water stagnates, leaf spots may appear: improve drainage accordingly.

Did you know?

Carex capillaris takes its name from the Latin 'capillaris' meaning 'fine as a hair,' evoking its delicate, hair-like foliage. This subtle grass is highly prized in alpine rock gardens and contemporary landscape gardens for its visual lightness, creating subtle movement effects at the slightest breeze.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.