Bird's foot sedge Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' 5-10 pot P9

Size: Potmaat leidend

5-10cm

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Pot 9x9 cm (P9)

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Benefits according to our specialist

Low maintenance
Evergreen
Decorative foliage

Plant features
Description
Planting and care
Packaging and shipping

Genus
Carex (view all varieties)

Root type
Pot

Pot size
9x9 cm (P9)

Flowering months
May, June, July

Leaf colour
Brown, Yellow

Possibilities
Border, Group planting, Planter, Edge planting

Soil type
All soil types, well-drained

Positioning
Semi-shade, Shade

Winter hardiness
-9,4°C / -3,9°C, USDA zone 8b/9a

Fruit-bearing plants
No

Water needs
Average water

Number of plants per m²
6

Evergreen plants
Yes

Leaf colour
Green, White

Fragrant plants
No

Growth habit
Clump-forming growth habit

Height at time of delivery excluding pot/clod
5-10

Mature height (cm)
30

Art. no.
1000210

Description

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' | Bird's foot sedge

The Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre', commonly known as bird's foot sedge, adds a delicate variegation to the garden with its striking green and white foliage. This semi-evergreen perennial is perfect for softening the edges of borders and pathways or for adding texture to planter arrangements.

With its clump-forming growth habit and modest height, 'Silver Sceptre' excels in providing year-round interest, maintaining its foliage colors from spring to winter.

Key Features

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' is a versatile plant that thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it an excellent choice for those challenging areas of the garden.
It requires well-drained soil but is otherwise adaptable to a variety of soil types.
The plant showcases a variegated pattern of green and white leaves, which remains vibrant across all seasons.
'Silver Sceptre' is a low-growing sedge, reaching up to 30 cm in height, and exhibits a clump-forming growth manner that is perfect for creating dense, textured ground cover.
It is a semi-evergreen species, ensuring that your garden retains visual interest even in the colder months.
Though it does not bear fruit, the bird's foot sedge produces subtle brown and yellow flowers in the late spring to early summer, adding a unique charm to its appearance.

Tips

To maintain the health and aesthetic of the Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre,' it is best to divide the clumps every few years. This process rejuvenates the plant and allows for propagation.
While the plant has average water needs, ensure that the soil remains moist, especially during dry periods, as 'Silver Sceptre' is not drought-resistant.
Plant in an area that can accommodate its spreading habit, allowing each clump enough space to flourish without overcrowding.

Ideal placement of a Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'

To maximize the ornamental appeal of Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre', optimal positioning is in areas of partial shade to full shade. This ensures the variegated foliage retains its striking coloration throughout the seasons. While the species is adaptable to various soil types, it thrives best in well-drained conditions. Regular watering will support its growth, but soil should not become waterlogged. The lush, variegated leaves create a vibrant tapestry when used as an edging plant or within group plantings, enhancing the texture and color contrast in garden borders or planters.

How do I plant a Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'?

To plant Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre', select a location that offers partial shade to full shade to accommodate its preference for cooler environments. Ensure the soil is well-drained, yet capable of retaining sufficient moisture to meet this species' average water needs. The ideal planting times are during the cooler temperatures of spring or autumn. When planting, space the clumps approximately 25 to 30 centimeters apart to allow for natural spreading. Water the plants thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots and provide a strong start for growth. Regular watering should be maintained, especially during dry periods, to sustain the plant's lush foliage.

Pruning a Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' benefits from minimal pruning to maintain its tidy, clump-forming habit. In early spring, before new growth starts, trim back any brown or spent foliage from the previous year. This light pruning will encourage fresh, variegated leaves to emerge, showcasing the plant's striking green and white coloration throughout the growing season. Avoid heavy cutting back, as this may damage the plant. Regularly removing spent flower spikes after blooming can also help to retain the ornamental appearance of this semi-evergreen sedge.

Watering a Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' requires consistent moisture to maintain its lush, variegated foliage. An average watering schedule, ensuring that the soil remains well-drained yet moist, is vital. Overwatering can lead to root issues, so it's important to allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During hotter months, this may necessitate more frequent watering to compensate for increased evaporation. Conversely, in cooler seasons or when rainfall is ample, it's prudent to reduce the frequency to match the plant's reduced water consumption.

Fertilising a Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'

To support the lush variegated foliage of Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre', a balanced approach to fertilization is recommended. Fertilize the species in early spring to kickstart its growth cycle as it emerges from its semi-evergreen state. A slow-release, well-balanced fertilizer is ideal, as it provides a steady supply of nutrients that align with the plant's needs. This will encourage robust clump formation and vibrant leaf coloration throughout the growing seasons.

Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of the plant's characteristic brown and yellow inflorescences. A second application of fertilizer can be beneficial in mid-summer to sustain its vigor, especially when planted in containers where nutrients may deplete faster.

The characteristics of a Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'

The Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' is distinguished by its variegated foliage, with fine white margins that illuminate shady garden spots. This ornamental grass thrives in moist, well-drained soil, contributing to a lush undergrowth or border. It forms neat, low mounds that gracefully sway with the breeze, providing subtle movement and texture. As seasons change, the foliage offers a captivating display, transitioning from vibrant greens to subtle bronze hues, thus enriching the garden palette throughout the year.

Separating/dividing a Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'

To encourage robust growth and maintain the health of Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre', division is a recommended practice. This process involves gently lifting the plant from the soil and then separating it into smaller clumps, ensuring that each section has a portion of roots. Replant these clumps immediately to prevent drying out. Division should ideally be carried out in the cooler months of spring or autumn to allow the divisions to establish before the extremes of summer or winter. This method of propagation not only rejuvenates the plant but also helps to control its spread within a garden setting.

What will be the height of Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'?

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' typically reaches a height ranging from 10 to 50 centimeters when fully mature.

What will be the width of Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'?

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' will achieve a width ranging from 10 to 50 centimeters at its full maturity.

Which soil type is most suitable for the Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'?

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' is adaptable to various soil types, but it thrives best in well-drained soil. This ensures that the plant receives adequate moisture without the risk of waterlogging, promoting healthy growth and development.

What is the ideal positioning for the Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'?

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' flourishes in environments with partial shade or shade. It can thrive beautifully when placed in a location where direct sunlight is limited, such as under the canopy of taller plants or trees.

What is the flowering colour of the Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'?

The blossoms of Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' exhibit a delightful mix of brown and yellow hues, adding a unique touch to its overall appearance.

Is the Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' hardy?

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' is indeed winter hardy. With a tolerance for temperatures ranging from -9.4°C to -3.9°C, this variety falls within the winter hardiness zones of 8b to 9a. Consequently, it is well-suited to endure the winter conditions within these designated zones.

Is the Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' evergreen?

Certainly, Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' is indeed an evergreen plant. This means it maintains its foliage throughout the year, offering a consistent green presence in your outdoor space.

What is the growth strength of the Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre'?

Carex ornithopoda 'Silver Sceptre' typically reaches its ultimate height within a period of two to five years, indicating a moderate growth rate for this particular species.

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