Japanese sedges (Carex oshimensis) are fine-textured variegated sedges that typically grow in a low, grass-like mounded clump to 10-16” tall and wide. This tough colorful sedge was originally found growing in dry woodlands and rocky slopes throughout Honshu Island, Japan. Brownish flower spikes, mostly inconspicuous, form on triangular stems in spring.
Japanese sedge are evergreen across the southern U.S. They’re long-lasting and easy to grow! Evercolor® series of variegated Japanese sedges are the result of breeding from Pat Fitzgerald, at Fitzgerald Nurseries in Kilkenny, Ireland. This collection of seven cultivars (to date)have been introduced so far. They are hardy in zones 6-8, but are being evaluated in USDA zone 5. Plants are evergreen through most of their growing range.
Sedges are grass-like plants, mostly preferring sites with moist, rich soil and in part shade. Once established in one growing season, these sedges tolerate dry shade, accompanied by intermittent watering during dry periods. Foliage colors are richer in partial shade than in full sun. Plants spread are propagate by rhizome division in early spring.
Evercolor® series make exceptional ground covers, as well as bedding and specimen plants. They are planted in mixed containers and window boxes, as billowy plant mounds spilling over the edge into a path or billow up (mound) in a container or window box. Spacing varies with cultivar. Group these sedges as edging along paths as specimen accent plants. Sedges can be planted along the edges of streams or ponds, and in rock gardens.
Evercolor® sedges grow 12 inches high and 12-18 inches in spread in shade or part shade in moist to average soil with good drainage. Water well after planting and regularly until established after one year. Trim back all last year’s growth in late winter. No serious insect or disease problems trouble sedges and are deer resistant
‘Evergold’ is the original variegated form grown noted for its arching, ornamentally attractive foliage. narrow leaves with broad, creamy, yellowish-white center stripe and bordered by thin dark green margins.
‘Everillo’ – a cascading mounding fountain of lime green leaves deepen to yellow-gold later in the summer.
‘Everest’ – more vigorous sport of ‘Evergold’ with green center and crisp snow-white edging.
‘Everlime’ – a mound of leaf blades with deep green centers flanked by lime green margins.
‘Eversheen’ has distinctive lime yellow striped foliage, all in a neat flowing mound.
‘Everoro’ – leaf blades emerge lime-green and turn golden yellow late in the season.
‘Everlite’ – rich green leaf blade edges and broad white center stripe.
