Carex oshimensis 'Evergold'
Evergold Japanese Sedge
Species native to Japan (Izu Islands and southern Honshu); cultivar selected in Japan
Overview
Carex oshimensis 'Evergold' is a low, arching, evergreen sedge reaching 10–14 inches (25–35 cm) tall with a spread of 14–20 inches (35–50 cm). The cultivar is a standard variegated sedge across North American and European nurseries. Leaves are 0.2–0.3 inch (5–8 mm) wide, each with a broad creamy-yellow to pale gold central stripe flanked by dark green margins. The arching leaves cascade outward from a central crown in a fountain-like mound. The variegation is stable and holds consistent color year-round. Small brown flower spikes appear in March–April but are inconspicuous among the foliage. Foliage is evergreen and holds variegation through winter in zones 6–9. Growth rate is moderate. Plants form a slowly expanding clump without aggressive rhizomatous spread. In full sun in hot climates the pale central stripe scorches; in deep shade the contrast between the creamy center and the green edges diminishes. The shallow root system is drought-sensitive. Slugs damage new growth in spring.
Native Range
The species Carex oshimensis is native to Japan, on the Izu Islands (including Oshima, the source of the species epithet) and adjacent areas of southern Honshu. It grows in moist shaded woodlands and forest margins at low elevations. 'Evergold' was selected in Japan.Suggested Uses
Used in shade gardens, woodland borders, and as border edging at 14–18 inch (35–45 cm) spacing. The bright variegation brightens shaded areas and functions as a groundcover in mass plantings under trees. Grows in containers of at least 2 gallons (8 L) and works as a spiller in container combinations. Pairs with dark-foliaged plants such as Heuchera spp. 'Palace Purple' and ferns for contrast. The evergreen habit supplies year-round structure.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height10" - 1'2"
Width/Spread1'2" - 1'8"
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Bloom Information
Inconspicuous brown flower spikes appear on short stems in March–April. Flowers are not an ornamental feature on this cultivar. The year-round bicolored variegated foliage carries the display.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Brown (inconspicuous)Foliage Description
Broad creamy-yellow to pale gold central stripe flanked by dark green marginsGrowing 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. Morning sun with afternoon shade holds the brightest variegation without scorch. Full sun in hot climates bleaches the pale center; deep shade reduces contrast. Consistent moisture is essential since drought causes leaf-tip browning. Mulch retains soil moisture. The clumping habit requires no runner management. Division every 4–5 years in spring keeps the center vigorous if it thins. Slugs damage new growth in spring. No serious disease problems.Pruning
Damaged winter foliage is combed out or trimmed in early spring before new growth emerges. Shearing to the ground is not used; the evergreen foliage does not regenerate well from hard cutting. In mild climates where foliage holds through winter, minimal grooming is needed.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: 2 gallons