CAREX testacea Prairie Fire

Carex testacea 'Prairie Fire' - Description and Maintenance Guide

Introduction

Carex testacea 'Prairie Fire,' also known as Orange New Zealand Sedge, is a striking ornamental grass celebrated for its captivating fiery foliage, compact habit, and adaptability in garden design. This exceptional Carex variety is a preferred choice among gardeners looking to add vibrant color, texture, and year-round interest to their landscapes. Explore the characteristics and maintenance tips for this stunning ornamental grass.

Characteristics

• Appearance: 'Prairie Fire' is a clump-forming evergreen grass known for its outstanding, fiery foliage. The narrow leaves emerge olive-green in spring, gradually transforming into brilliant orange and copper hues as the season progresses. This stunning coloration intensifies in colder weather, making it a standout in late fall and winter. Inconspicuous brownish flower spikes may appear in late spring to early summer, adding subtle interest.

• Size: This Carex variety typically reaches a height of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) with a similar spread, forming a compact mound. Its neat and tidy growth habit makes it an excellent choice for various garden settings.

Maintenance

Caring for Carex testacea 'Prairie Fire' is relatively straightforward, and it offers year-round beauty with minimal effort. Here are maintenance guidelines to ensure its health and maximize its appeal:

• Location: Plant 'Prairie Fire' in a location that receives partial to full sun, although it can tolerate light shade. It thrives in well-drained soil and adapts well to various soil types. Ensure consistent moisture, especially during the establishment phase.

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering is essential during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture.

• Pruning: Trim away any damaged or unsightly leaves as needed throughout the year to maintain its neat appearance. In late winter or early spring, cut back the entire plant to about 2 inches (5 cm) above the ground to encourage fresh growth and rejuvenation.

• Fertilization: 'Prairie Fire' typically doesn't require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges if needed.

• Dividing: Every few years, consider dividing mature clumps to rejuvenate the plant and maintain its vigor.

Landscape Uses

Carex testacea 'Prairie Fire' is a versatile ornamental grass that can enhance various garden settings:

• Ornamental Borders: Use it as a colorful border plant, where its fiery foliage provides year-round visual interest.

• Containers: 'Prairie Fire' thrives in containers, making it an excellent choice for patios, balconies, or as a focal point in container gardens.

• Mass Plantings: Create stunning visual impact by planting it in mass groupings or drifts.

• Mixed Plantings: Pair it with other ornamental grasses, perennials, and shrubs to create visually appealing mixed beds.

Conclusion

Carex testacea 'Prairie Fire' is a standout ornamental grass that brings year-round elegance and low-maintenance beauty to any garden or landscape. Its fiery foliage adds a bold splash of color and texture to ornamental borders, containers, or mixed plantings. Whether you're looking to infuse vibrant hues into your garden, create striking container displays, or add texture to your landscape, 'Prairie Fire' will undoubtedly set your garden ablaze with its captivating presence. Embrace the beauty and simplicity of Carex testacea 'Prairie Fire' and enjoy the year-round charm it brings to your outdoor spaces

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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