Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Carex tenuiculmis ‘Cappuccino’
New Zealand Hair Sedge
- Family
- Cyperaceae
- Height
- 18 to 24 inches
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Inconspicuous flowers
- Foliage color
- A mix of vibrant greens, rich browns, and bronze tones
- Bloom time
- Focus is on the foliage
- Light
- Partial to full shade
- Water
- Regular water
- Maintenance
- Low
- Growing zone
- Zones 7a - 10b
- Wildlife
- Provide habitat and cover for small wildlife
About this plant
Carex tenuiculmis 'Cappuccino' is a cultivar of sedge known for its ornamental appeal, featuring narrow, arching leaves in vibrant greens, rich browns, and bronze tones, resembling the colors of a cappuccino. Forming compact tufts or mounds, it thrives in partial to full shade and is ideal for ground cover or border plantings, adding texture and visual interest to shaded landscapes. Low-maintenance and requiring regular watering and occasional pruning, 'Cappuccino' is valued for its unique coloration and versatility, making it a popular choice for attractive and adaptable ornamental grass in landscaping.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Rain Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums · Hostas
Design tip
Foliage and form do most of the work here, so lean on texture and repetition rather than one flowering moment. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
