Carex Albula 'Frosted Curls'
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Frosted Curls Sedge / New Zealand Hair Sedge
Botanical Name: Carex albula 'Frosted Curls'
Family: Cyperaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen, strappy grass-like perennial (sedge)
Overview
A compact New Zealand sedge forming soft, cascading mounds of silvery, “frosted” curls that move beautifully in the breeze. Great for mass planting, edging paths, softening rock and gravel gardens, or spilling from pots. Best in full sun to part shade with free-draining soil.
Key Features
- Mature Size: 0.3–0.5 m H × 0.4–0.6 m W
- Growth Rate: 20-30 cm per year under good conditions
- Foliage: Fine, hair-like, silvery green/icy blue leaves that curl at the tips
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Flowers: Inconspicuous tan seed heads in summer (not a feature)
- Seasonal Interest: Year-round colour and texture; fresh flush in spring
- Wildlife Value: Low nectar; provides cover for beneficial insects
- Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, second-line coastal-tolerant; light frost
- Planting Density: Mass planting: 4–9 plants/m² (looser drift vs dense carpet); Edges/drifts: 30–40 cm centres
- Pet Friendly: Generally non-toxic; any plant ingestion may cause mild stomach upset
Where It Works Best
- Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (some afternoon shade inland keeps colour fresh)
- Soil: Well-drained sandy/loam; add grit for heavy soils
- Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
- Maintenance: Mulch in spring; comb out old leaves as needed; light tidy late winter; divide clumps every 3–4 years to refresh
- Lifespan: 5–8 years at peak form (longer if periodically divided)
- Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
- Soil pH: Acid to Neutral
Landscape & Design Ideas
- Mass plant for a shimmering, low “sea” of silver texture
- Edge paths and stepping stones; soften rockeries and gravel gardens
- Containers and courtyard pots for movement and contrast
Why You Will Love It
A fuss-free, year-round silvery accent that adds movement, contrast and contemporary polish—perfect for mass plantings, modern borders and pots.