Carex elata


Carex elata ''', is a species of tussock-forming, grass-like plant in the Cyperaceae family. It is native to all of Europe, the Atlas Mountains of Africa, Turkey, Iran and Central Asia.

Description

Carex elata is a tussock-forming, evergreen perennial, growing to 1.2 m by 1.5 m. Foliage is bright gold, with green margins. It flowers from May to June, and seeds ripen from July to August. The species is monoecious.
Its cultivar 'Aurea' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Distribution and habitat

Carex elata grows best in nutrient-rich, wetland conditions, such as marshes, fens, wet woods, and shallow water margins.

Subspecies

The following subspecies are currently accepted:
  • Carex elata subsp. elata
  • Carex elata subsp. omskiana Jalas