Sedge 'Intense Green' (Carex) - ornamental grass - 17 cm pot - Height 50 cm

Yes, the Laîche Carex oshimensis Intense Green is one of the few ornamental grasses that is truly at ease in deep shade. It grows naturally in Japanese woodlands, where the light is filtered and the air is permanently cool. In the garden, it is perfectly suited for planting at the foot of trees, under a dense hedge, or in a sparsely lit north-facing border. It is even under these conditions that its bright green foliage takes on its full radiance, without any risk of leaf scorch. Full summer sun, on the other hand, is unfavorable and causes the leaves to yellow.

No, the Laîche Carex oshimensis Intense Green is an evergreen grass: it retains its long, arching, bright green leaves throughout the winter. Even during frosts, the foliage remains intact and does not significantly dry out. This is one of its great strengths: it provides year-round greenery in the garden, even during the dormant season. In spring, simply remove the few dead leaves to reveal a fresh, dense clump.

To grow Intense Green Rush in a pot, choose a container at least 25 to 30 cm in diameter with good drainage at the bottom (clay'balls or gravel). Fill with quality multipurpose potting mix, lightly amended with compost. Place the pot in the shade or partial shade on'a terrace or a north- or'east-facing balcony. Water regularly, as the pot dries out faster than the ground, but never allow water to become stagnant.'A spring application of'fertilizer for green plants will promote growth and glossy foliage.

For an even ground cover effect, allow a spacing of 30 to 40 cm between each Laîche Carex oshimensis Intense Green plant. The plant forms a dense clump that will spread gradually without being invasive. Along the edge of a path or flower bed, a spacing of 30 cm will be sufficient to obtain a continuous line from the second season. To quickly fill a large shaded area, you can reduce the spacing to 25 cm. As the growth is moderate, the junction between the clumps will be completed in one to two seasons.

Yes, the Laîche Carex oshimensis Intense Green is fully hardy and easily withstands French winters. It tolerates severe sub-zero temperatures without requiring any special winter protection when planted in the ground. Its evergreen foliage remains in place throughout the winter, unlike many grasses that die back to the ground. In continental climates with prolonged frosts, a light layer of mulch around the base can be applied as a precaution during the first few years. In a planter or pot, move the container into an unheated shelter during very severe winters.

The Laîche Carex oshimensis Intense Green pairs beautifully with other shade plants with contrasting foliage. Combine it with broad-leaved, blue-tinted hostas for a striking graphic effect, or with ferns for a natural woodland feel. Alongside impatiens, begonias or astilbes, it provides a permanent structure to the border even after the annuals have disappeared. It also blends very well into a Japanese-style composition alongside dwarf bamboos or pieris. Its intense green foliage also makes the white or pink flowers of partial-shade hydrangeas stand out.

The Intense Green Carex oshimensis is renowned for its ease of care, making it an ideal plant for novice gardeners or those with little time. It requires neither regular pruning nor intensive fertilization nor winter protection. In spring, simply removing the dry leaves by hand is enough to keep the plant tidy and vigorous. In well-prepared soil, watering is limited once the plant is established. Applying organic mulch around the base in spring helps keep the soil cool and further reduces maintenance.