Carex Oshimensis 'Feather Falls'
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Feather Falls Sedge / Japanese Sedge
Botanical Name: Carex oshimensis 'Feather Falls'
Family: Cyperaceae
Origin: Japan (Ōshima Island)
Plant Type: Strappy, evergreen sedge (grass-like perennial)
Overview
A compact, cascading sedge prized for its bold variegated foliage—mid-green leaves edged creamy-white—that forms a tidy “waterfall” mound year-round. Flowers are inconspicuous; this plant is grown for foliage. Excellent for edging, pots, spilling over walls, and brightening shade. Best in part shade in hot summers.
Key Features
- Mature Size: 0.4-0.6 m H x 0.5-0.7 m W
- Growth Rate: 15-30 cm per year under good conditions
- Foliage: Arching, variegated green with broad creamy-white margins; evergreen
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Flowers: Small, inconspicuous brownish spikes in spring (not a feature)
- Seasonal Interest: Year-round foliage; brightest variegation on new growth
- Wildlife Value: Low nectar value; provides low cover for beneficial insects
- Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, second-line coastal-tolerant; light–moderate frost
- Planting Density: Mass: 4–6 plants/m² for full cover; Edges/drifts: 3 plants per linear metre
- Pet Friendly: Generally non-toxic; ingestion of any foliage may upset pets.
Where It Works Best
- Sunlight: Part shade to bright shade (full sun OK in cool climates with adequate water)
- Soil: Free-draining loam or sandy loam enriched with organic matter
- Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks; Keep evenly moist in heat; deep soak every 7–10 days in summer, less in winter if natural rainfall
- Maintenance: Trim off tatty leaves; optional light shear in late winter to refresh. Mulch spring; slow-release feed in early spring.
- Lifespan: 7-12+ years
- Climate Zones: Suited to temperate & Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
- Soil pH: Acid to neutral (tolerates slightly alkaline)
Landscape & Design Ideas
- Edge paths or mixed borders; spill over low walls and pots
- Mass plant for a luminous, low-care ground effect
- Underplanting for shrubs/trees; brighten shade gardens and courtyards
Why You Will Love It
A low-maintenance, year-round foliage star that brings instant light to shady spots and containers, with a graceful cascading habit and reliable performance in South Australian conditions.