Replacing carex pendula

Discussion in 'Gardening Discussions' started by Nickoslesteros, Sep 1, 2024.

  1. Nickoslesteros

    Nickoslesteros Gardener

    Joined:
    Mar 16, 2024
    Messages:
    180
    Gender:
    Male
    Ratings:
    +85
    Hello!

    I seemed to have let the carex pendula grow. It must have self seeded (as there are others I have been removing too). It has taken over the area where I have Euphorbias and ferns. I know it will keep growing and wipe everything out, so today, it goes. One thing, though, I like is that it adds a bit of height to the border. Wondering if there are any ideas for something to replace it. Open to grasses, perennials or small shrubs...

    What do you think?
     
  2. Nickoslesteros

    Nickoslesteros Gardener

    Joined:
    Mar 16, 2024
    Messages:
    180
    Gender:
    Male
    Ratings:
    +85
    Forgot photo
     

    Attached Files:

  3. Plantminded

    Plantminded Head Gardener

    Joined:
    Mar 13, 2024
    Messages:
    1,077
    Gender:
    Male
    Occupation:
    Retired
    Location:
    Wirral
    Ratings:
    +3,548
    Stipa Calamagrostis has a slightly arching habit but does not self seed or invade. It may need a little more space though! If you want something more upright, Stipa tenuissima is a small evergreen grass that's easy to grow. Both prefer sun but will cope in some shade. Imperata cylindrica red baron is another possibility which will complement your red leaved acer.
     
  4. AnniD

    AnniD Gardener

    Joined:
    Mar 13, 2024
    Messages:
    327
    Gender:
    Female
    Location:
    Gloucestershire
    Ratings:
    +654
  5. noisette47

    noisette47 Total Gardener

    Joined:
    Jan 25, 2013
    Messages:
    6,454
    Gender:
    Female
    Location:
    Lot-et-Garonne, Aquitaine
    Ratings:
    +15,749
    An often overlooked alternative to grasses is Dierama pulcherrimum. The lovely, hanging flowers come in all shades of pink, white and red and once they've faded, the arching stems still make a graceful statement. There are dainty dwarf types and large, imposing ones up to 1.5m. The old foliage can be pulled out to tidy up the plant or no doubt it could just be sheared off à la Miscanthus, although I haven't tried that.
     
  6. Nickoslesteros

    Nickoslesteros Gardener

    Joined:
    Mar 16, 2024
    Messages:
    180
    Gender:
    Male
    Ratings:
    +85
    Some nice suggestions there. Going to research the grasses a little more.

    I have just been gifted a fuschia hawks head. Could this work, it best for a different spot?
     
  7. Plantminded

    Plantminded Head Gardener

    Joined:
    Mar 13, 2024
    Messages:
    1,077
    Gender:
    Male
    Occupation:
    Retired
    Location:
    Wirral
    Ratings:
    +3,548
    Yes it would provide height and interest @Nickoslesteros, with a little cleared space around it. It’s deciduous so no winter interest, unlike most evergreen or deciduous grasses.
     
Loading...

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice