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Carex davalliana

Carex davalliana · Cyperaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant carex davalliana: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Evergreen, fine and narrow, greyish-green
Flowering
Spring (April-June), discrete brown spikes
Adult size
15 to 30 cm in height
Growth
Slow to moderate
Hardiness
Very hardy (down to -20°C)
Origin
Alps and mountainous regions of Europe
Soil type
Moist, calcareous, well-drained
Form
Compact clump, herbaceous

Care

Watering

Carex davalliana prefers moist and consistently fresh soil, without stagnant water. During the growing season, maintain regular moisture. Reduce slightly in winter, but never allow the substrate to dry out completely.

Light exposure

Choose a position in partial shade or full sun depending on your climate. In warm regions, partial shade protects the foliage. In mountains or cool regions, full sun promotes attractive colour and balanced growth.

Soil

This sedge appreciates calcareous soils, rich in organic matter and well-drained. Improve the soil at planting time with compost and sand if necessary. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH is perfectly suitable.

Pruning and tidying

Remove dead or damaged leaves in early spring before new growth appears. Divide clumps every 3-4 years to revitalize the plant and control its spread. Light cleaning is generally sufficient.

Fertilizer

A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in spring promotes growth. This mountain plant does not require intensive feeding. Avoid excess, which could weaken the clump structure.

Pests and diseases

Carex davalliana is generally very resistant. Excessive standing moisture can promote root rot or fungal issues. Ensure adequate drainage and good air circulation by regular cleaning of the clump.

Did you know?

Carex davalliana owes its name to the botanist and herbalist Jean Antoine Dalla, an 18th-century Italian botanist. This little sedge is a true relict species of the Alps, appreciated by alpine landscape designers for its role in stabilizing slopes and its delicate flower spikes that sway in the slightest breeze: a hardy grass that has conquered the gardens of European mountain regions.

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.