Description
Carex grayi, known as mace sedge, is a clump-forming sedge with broad, rich green, grass-like leaves. Through summer it carries green flower spikes followed by spiky seed heads like a medieval mace, which turn chocolate brown and last into winter.
Mace sedge at a glance
| Botanical name |
Carex grayi |
| Common name |
Mace sedge, Gray's sedge |
| Plant type |
Clump-forming sedge; dies back in winter |
| Height and spread |
About 50–90 cm tall, 30–60 cm wide |
| Flowers |
Green spikes, June to August, followed by spiky mace-like seed heads |
| Position |
Full sun or part shade |
| Soil |
Wet, poorly drained clay or loam; any pH |
| Pond depth |
Wet soil or shallow water at the pond edge |
| Hardiness |
RHS H6 – hardy in a very cold winter (-20 to -15°C) |
| Native to |
Not UK native |
Where to plant mace sedge
- Wet ground at the edge of a pond
- Bog gardens
- Sun or part shade; the leaves are darker green in shade
How to plant and care for it
Plant in wet clay or loam. Cut back the old leaves in autumn. It may self-seed. Watch for aphids and rust.
Is it good for wildlife?
The RHS suggests it for wildlife gardens, and a US source says the seeds feed many birds.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
