Description
Carex buchananii, commonly known as Buchanan’s sedge or leatherleaf sedge, is a perennial ornamental grass native to New Zealand. It belongs to the Cyperaceae family and is appreciated for its coppery coloured appearance.
- Physical Characteristics:
- Height: Typically grows between 50-60cm tall.
- Foliage: The arching, copper-bronze leaves are the key feature, providing a distinctive ornamental appeal. The leaves are narrow and can reach up to 50-60cm in length.
- Texture: The leaves have a leathery texture, contributing to the plant’s name, “leatherleaf sedge.”
- Growing Conditions:
- Sunlight: Carex buchananii thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a variety of light conditions but tends to show its best colour in full sun.
- Soil: Prefers moist soil usually found growing alongside lake and rivers.
- Maintenance:
- Pruning: Generally low-maintenance, but removing dead or damaged foliage in late winter or early spring can promote healthy growth.
- Fertilization: A balanced fertilizer applied in spring can enhance growth, but Carex buchananii usually doesn’t require heavy feeding.
Using Carex buchananii in a New Zealand Garden:
- Landscaping:
- Carex buchananii serves as an excellent ornamental grass for landscaping, adding colour and texture to garden beds and borders.
- Its distinctive coppery foliage contrasts well with greenery, providing visual interest..
- Wildlife Garden:
- The dense, arching foliage provides shelter for small wildlife and contributes to the overall biodiversity of the garden.
- Water Features:
- Plant Carex buchananii near water features, as it can tolerate moist conditions and adds a graceful, natural touch to pond edges or stream banks.
The plants are in 5cm pots and average one year in age.
