Carex siderosticta 'Shiro-nakafu'

Common name: Broad-leaved Sedge 'Shiro-nakafu'

Description: Carex siderosticta 'Shiro-nakafu' is a beautiful and refined broad-leaved sedge producing wide, strap-like leaves with a broad central white stripe running the full length of each blade — quite unlike the narrow, grassy texture of most sedges. The broad, elegantly arching foliage emerges in spring with particularly good white variegation and provides an attractive, weed-suppressing ground cover in shaded and partially shaded positions throughout the growing season. It is an excellent plant for brightening up dark corners of the garden or providing textural contrast in a shaded border.

Other benefits: unusually broad leaves for a sedge; striking white central variegation; effective ground cover in shade; good with hostas and ferns

Wildlife attraction: provides cover and habitat for ground-level invertebrates

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 25–30cm x 30–40cm

Position: partial shade to full shade; shaded borders, woodland gardens, and containers; excellent under deciduous trees

Soil pH: neutral to acid (pH 5.5–7.0); moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil

Moisture: moderate to moist; keep consistently moist; mulch to retain moisture; avoid drought

Winter hardiness: fully hardy to -20°C; dies back in winter, re-emerging in spring