Grass - Carex oshimensis Evercolor® 'Everillo' - Japanese Sedge

While Carex 'Everillo' is not known for attracting pollinators, its dense foliage provides habitat and shelter for beneficial insects and small wildlife. The evergreen nature of the plant offers year-round cover in garden beds and borders. It is also deer- and rabbit-resistant, making it a reliable choice for wildlife-prone areas.

• Seasonality: Evergreen; maintains its vibrant foliage year-round in milder climates.
• Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer (May-June)
• Bloom Description: 'Everillo' produces small, inconspicuous greenish-brown flowers that rise slightly above the foliage in late spring. While the flowers are not a primary feature, they add a subtle touch of texture to the plant.

Shade gardens and woodland edges

Mass planting or borders

Edging pathways or garden beds

Containers for bright accent foliage

Underplanting shrubs and trees

The standout feature of 'Everillo' is its striking lime-green to chartreuse foliage. The narrow, arching leaves create a soft, flowing appearance that adds movement and texture to the garden. The color is brightest in partial shade, where the leaves develop a rich golden hue that contrasts beautifully with other plants.

• Bloom Type: ⚪ Inconspicuous spikelets
  
• Color: Pale yellow to tan
  
• Timing: Spring to early summer
  

Details: Narrow, upright flower spikes are usually hidden within the foliage. They're not showy and not the primary ornamental feature.

• Planting Season: Best planted in early spring or fall when temperatures are cool, allowing the plant to establish roots before the growing season or winter dormancy.

• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, consistently moist soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and loamy soils. Adding organic matter like compost will help improve moisture retention and fertility.

• Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for mature spread and create a lush, flowing effect in the garden.

Planting Instructions:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Place the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface.
3. Backfill with soil, tamp gently, and water thoroughly.
4. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning is minimal for Carex 'Everillo'. In late winter or early spring, trim back any dead or damaged leaves to maintain a tidy appearance. Avoid cutting the plant back too heavily, as it maintains its shape naturally. Regularly remove any browned or old leaves to encourage fresh, vibrant growth.

'Everillo' prefers consistently moist soil, especially during the first growing season. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Once established, it can tolerate short periods of drought but performs best with regular moisture.

'Everillo' thrives in partial to full shade, though it can tolerate some morning sun in cooler climates. In full shade, the foliage will remain a vibrant chartreuse, while partial shade helps develop a more golden hue. Too much direct sunlight may cause the leaves to scorch, so it is best suited for shaded or lightly filtered light environments.

While 'Everillo' is primarily an ornamental plant, its bright foliage can be harvested for use in fresh or dried floral arrangements. Cut the leaves when they are mature and healthy to add texture and color to indoor displays.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage. A second light application of fertilizer in mid-summer can help sustain the plant’s vigor throughout the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced color intensity.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.

• Pest and Disease Resistance: 'Everillo' is highly resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance plant. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent any potential fungal issues in overly humid conditions.

• Winter Care: In colder climates, 'Everillo' remains evergreen and requires no special winter care. In areas with harsh winters, a light layer of mulch can help protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

Carex plants are wind-pollinated, not insect-pollinated.

‘Everillo’ is typically propagated via division rather than seed, so pollination is not important for its use in landscaping.

Carex ‘Everillo’ thrives in part to full shade with moist, well-drained soil, making it ideal alongside other foliage-focused or shade-loving plants. Great companions include:

• Hosta – complements with bold leaf contrast
  
• Heuchera (Coral Bells) – adds deep or vibrant foliage contrast
  
• Brunnera macrophylla – provides spring blue blooms and large textured leaves
  
• Ferns (like Athyrium or Polystichum) – add soft, textured greens or purples
  
• Tiarella (Foamflower) – compact with spring flowers and semi-evergreen foliage
  
• Pulmonaria – mottled foliage and spring blooms enhance shade beds
  
• Epimedium – tough groundcover for dry shade beneath trees
  

These combinations create layered, colorful shade gardens that thrive with low maintenance.