Carex Ornithipoda 'Variegata'

Variegata Carex Sedge

Carex ornithopoda ‘Variegata’ is a compact, cool-season sedge valued for its fine texture and bright variegated foliage. Narrow green leaves with creamy-white margins emerge in spring, form neat, low clumps through the growing season, and remain attractive into fall, while small, inconspicuous flower spikes appear in spring. Its tidy habit and subtle color make it ideal for edging, rock gardens, and shaded plantings.

Type: Perennial sedge (grass-like)

Mature Size:
Width: 10–15 in
Height: 6–10 in
(10-year size: slowly expanding clumps)

USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Form: Low, compact, clump-forming
Light: Partial shade to full shade (tolerates some sun with moisture)
Soil: Well-drained soils; prefers humus-rich conditions
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but dislikes wet soils

Wildlife: Provides cover; supports beneficial insects


Features & Landscape Uses


Bright variegated foliage for contrast in shade



Compact size ideal for edging and small spaces



Fine texture complements woodland plantings



Works well in rock gardens and containers




Care
Low-maintenance. Cut back or comb through in early spring to remove old foliage. Prefers consistent moisture and well-drained soils. Protect from hot afternoon sun. Divide every few years to maintain vigor.

Plant type

Perennial, Sedge

Height

6-10"

Width

10-15''

Hardiness zones

7

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Flower color

Orange

Leaf color

Green

Soil

Average, Clay, Moist well-drained

Shape

Clump, Compact

Drought tolerant

No