Story and Photos by Peggy Hill
“We think Carex ‘Everillo’ is one of the most exciting shade plants of the last decade, and as such we’ve already planted dozens in our own garden.” That is high praise from Tony Avent, proprietor of Plant Delights Nursery in Raleigh, North Carolina. After growing it myself, I see why he is impressed. It’s easy to grow and sails through our hot, humid summers. It’s typically deer resistant, and it brings eye-catching color to a partially shaded area.
Native to Japan, it’s found in dry woods, but it’s adaptable and will grow in occasionally moist environments. It dislikes consistently wet feet, so it’s not suitable for a rain garden, but as long as the soil is well drained and you give it afternoon shade, you can grow this beauty almost anywhere.
My biggest challenge with ‘Everillo’ was deciding where to plant it. I walked around for hours, setting it in various locations, and it looked spectacular everywhere. I solved the problem by getting more plants and I completely understand why Plant Delights Nursery has dozens in their garden.
Quick Facts and Keys to Success
Common Name: ‘Everillo’ sedge
Botanical Name: Carex oshimensis ‘Everillo’
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
Color: Golden yellow in morning sun, yellow green in shade
Blooming Period: May, insignificant
Type: Evergreen perennial
Mature Size: 12-18 inches tall and wide
Exposure: Part sun to shade
How to Plant: 1-2 inches above the soil
Soil: Well-drained
Watering: Average, tolerates some moist and dry conditions.
When to Fertilize: Spring
In Your Landscape: Used frequently in mixed containers, it’s also fantastic for edging a bed.
Photos: The decision to buy ‘Everillo’ was easy, but deciding where to plant it was a difficult dilemma. It looked fantastic next to purple basil, SunPatiens Impatiens, and the boxwood (Buxus), and practically everything else in my garden.