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Carex ornithopoda 'Aurea'
golden Bird's foot sedge
Central and southern Europe (Alps, Balkans, Pyrenees)
Overview
Carex ornithopoda 'Aurea' is a miniature, densely tufted, semi-evergreen sedge reaching 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) tall with a spread of 6–10 inches (15–25 cm). The cultivar is grown for its bright golden-yellow to chartreuse foliage, which shows saturated color in spring and early summer. Leaves are narrow, 0.08–0.12 inch (2–3 mm) wide, forming a compact arching rosette that radiates outward from a central crown in a shape resembling a bird's foot — the origin of the species epithet ('ornithopoda' means bird-footed). The golden color runs brightest in partial shade; full sun in hot climates bleaches the leaves, while deep shade shifts the foliage toward green. Small brown flower spikes appear on short stems in April–May but are inconspicuous. Growth rate is slow. The plant does not spread by rhizomes; clumps enlarge gradually from the crown and may self-sow lightly. At 4–6 inches tall and 6–10 inches wide, the cultivar is smaller than most ornamental sedges in cultivation. In cold, wet winter soils the crown may rot. The shallow root system requires consistent moisture.
Native Range
The species Carex ornithopoda is native to central and southern Europe, in the Alps, Balkans, and Pyrenees. It occurs on calcareous (limestone) rock ledges, alpine grasslands, and open woodlands from 1,500 to 7,000 feet (450–2,100 m). 'Aurea' was selected in cultivation.Suggested Uses
Used in rock gardens, alpine troughs, shaded border edges, and between stepping stones at 6–10 inch (15–25 cm) spacing. The miniature golden mound functions as a bright accent among dark-foliaged alpines and woodland perennials. Grows in containers of at least 1 gallon (4 L), including troughs, shallow pans, and window boxes. Pairs with blue-foliaged plants and dark Ajuga spp. for color contrast.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4" - 6"
Width/Spread6" - 10"
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Bloom Information
Inconspicuous brown flower spikes appear on short stems in April–May. Flowers are not an ornamental feature on this cultivar. Golden-chartreuse foliage carries the year-round display.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Brown (inconspicuous)Foliage Description
Bright golden-yellow to chartreuse (spring); fading to yellow-green by late summerGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade. The golden color is brightest in partial shade with morning sun; full sun in hot climates bleaches the leaves, and full shade shifts them toward green. Tolerates alkaline soils, reflecting the limestone origins of the species. Good drainage is essential; crown rot occurs in wet winter soils. Consistent moisture during the growing season prevents leaf-tip browning. Slow growth means clumps take 2–3 years to reach full size. Self-sows lightly. No serious pest or disease problems.Pruning
Winter-damaged or straw-colored leaves are removed in early spring before new golden growth emerges. No shearing is required. The compact size limits the need for maintenance.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early spring
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons