Carex montana aka Mountain Sedge

Carex montana is a small plant in the sedge family, Cyperaceae. It is a perennial, which means it lives for years. Gardeners call it mountain sedge or soft-leaved sedge. Its native range runs from Europe to Siberia. It is native to Britain and Ireland as well. This grass-like plant grows in tufts and clumps, not woody stems. It sheds its leaves for winter, so its cover is seasonal.

The bright green leaves arch out from the plant. They turn orange and bronze in autumn, then die back. The RHS describes plants about 0.7 feet (0.2 metres) tall. Its wider garden size range reaches 1.6 feet (0.5 metres). The listed spread also reaches 1.6 feet (0.5 metres). As it spreads, the plant forms a low, grass-like carpet. The RHS says it takes one to two years to mature. Its low growth suits spots where tall plants would block views.

Dark brown flowerheads rise above the arching leaves in summer. Thin, stiff flower stems hold them and their yellow pollen. The dark heads stand out against the bright leaves below. Both the flowers and leaves add interest to the garden. The leaves then change colour in the autumn. The plant's appeal comes from its low growth and seasonal show.

Choose soil that drains well and a spot with good light. The RHS lists both full sun and partial shade. The plant accepts chalk, clay, loam and sandy soils. It grows in acid, neutral and alkaline soil. The supplied care data allows dry to moist soil. In all these soils, it still needs good drainage. Sites that face any direction can suit it. The RHS lists both open and sheltered spots. Its H7 rating covers the coldest winters in mainland Europe. This rating includes temperatures below minus 20 degrees Celsius.

The RHS suggests it for ground cover and wildflower meadows. It also suits gardens that need little upkeep. The plant needs no routine pruning to keep growing. Gardeners may clear old leaves from its base for tidiness. Raise new plants from seed or divide them in early summer. The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems. The supplied sources give no evidence on edible uses or toxicity.