Carex ‘Silver Sceptre’ – Variegated Sedge

8.50

Frequently Bought Together

Compost - 50L
Total: 10.50

Description

Quick Facts

  • Common Name: Variegated Sedge
  • Botanical Name: Carex ‘Silver Sceptre’
  • Plant Type: Evergreen ornamental grass
  • Mature Height: 30-40 centimetres
  • Mature Spread: 30-40 centimetres
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flowering Period: May-June (insignificant brown spikes)
  • Foliage: Dark green with bright cream-white margins
  • Hardiness: Hardy (RHS H5)
  • Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil
  • Sun Requirements: Partial shade to full shade
  • Maintenance: Low maintenance

Description

Discover the quiet elegance of Carex ‘Silver Sceptre’ – a sedge that brings sophisticated charm and gentle luminosity to every corner of the garden. This exquisite variety is like having nature’s own spotlight, creating pools of light in shady spots where other plants might struggle to make an impact.
Each slender blade is artfully painted with the most elegant cream-white margins that frame deep green centres, creating a soft, silvery effect that seems to shimmer and dance with every gentle breeze. The variegation is perfectly balanced – never harsh or overwhelming, but subtle enough to blend harmoniously with surrounding plants while still providing that essential lift of brightness.
What makes ‘Silver Sceptre’ truly special is its compact, neat habit that forms perfect rounded tufts without ever becoming unruly or invasive. This is a sedge with impeccable manners – it stays exactly where you plant it, maintains its beautiful shape throughout the seasons, and provides consistent colour and texture from spring through winter.
The preference for partial to full shade makes this an invaluable plant for those challenging spots in the garden – beneath trees, in woodland areas, or in courtyards that don’t receive full sun. It’s the perfect solution for adding year-round interest and gentle colour to areas where many other plants would struggle to thrive.

Caragh Garden Notebook

Planting: Plant in moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade – too much sun can scorch the delicate cream margins. Excellent for woodland gardens, beneath trees, or in containers positioned in sheltered, shady spots. Thrives in consistently moist conditions.
Spacing: Allow 30-40 centimetres between plants for individual clumps, or plant in groups for gentle drifts of silvery light. The compact size makes it perfect for smaller gardens or detailed planting schemes.
Aftercare: Very low maintenance once established. Cut back to ground level in late winter before new growth begins. Benefits from consistent moisture – mulch around plants to retain soil moisture. Divide clumps every 3-4 years if needed.
Companion Planting: Stunning with shade-loving perennials like hostas, astilbe, or heuchera. Beautiful contrast with solid green foliage plants. Pairs wonderfully with spring bulbs like snowdrops or bluebells for seasonal highlights. Excellent with ferns for textural variety.
Irish Climate Notes: Perfectly suited to our mild, moist climate and actually benefits from our often overcast conditions. The cream variegation provides excellent brightness in shady areas during our darker months. Completely hardy and reliable.
Design Tips: Essential for lighting up dark corners, perfect for formal or informal shade gardens, excellent in containers for patios or courtyards, and wonderful for creating gentle contrast in mixed plantings. The compact size makes it ideal for detailed garden design.

 

Additional information

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