Carex Speciosa

Speciosa Grass

Carex siderosticha ‘Variegata’, often sold as Carex speciosa, is a low-growing, cool-season sedge valued for its broad, bamboo-like foliage marked with creamy-white variegation. Leaves emerge fresh green with bright white margins in spring, form a spreading, groundcover-like clump through the growing season, and remain attractive into fall, while small, inconspicuous flower spikes appear in spring. Its bold foliage and shade tolerance make it an excellent choice for brightening woodland gardens and shaded borders.

Type: Perennial sedge (grass-like)

Mature Size:
Width: 18–24 in (spreading)
Height: 8–12 in
(10-year size: forms spreading colonies)

USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Low, spreading, groundcover-forming
Light: Partial shade to full shade (tolerates some morning sun)
Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; prefers humus-rich conditions
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture

Wildlife: Provides cover; supports beneficial insects


Features & Landscape Uses


Bold, variegated foliage brightens shady areas



Broad leaves create a tropical or bamboo-like effect



Spreading habit for groundcover and edging



Excellent for woodland, shade gardens, and containers




Care
Low-maintenance. Cut back or clean up foliage in early spring. Prefers consistent moisture and rich, well-drained soils. Protect from hot afternoon sun and dry conditions. Divide every few years to maintain vigor and control spread.

Plant type

Perennial, Sedge

Height

8-12"

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Soil

Loamy, Moist well-drained

Shape

Ground Cover, Wide Spreading

Drought tolerant

No