Baumea rubiginosa 'Variegata'
grass

Variegated Baumea

Baumea rubiginosa 'Variegata'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Baumea rubiginosa, commonly known as the rusty sedge, is a perennial sedge with tufted, grass-like foliage and distinctive reddish-brown stems, producing subtle, spike-like inflorescences. The Variegata cultivar features striking variegated leaves with cream and green margins, adding ornamental interest to water gardens and wetland settings.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides textured, variegated foliage that adds visual interest in shaded and moist garden areas.
Practical UsesThrives in moist soils, helping to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local insects and small birds with habitat.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes into moist soil in spring.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
  3. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
  4. Mist foliage during dry periods for best health.
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and provide partial shade for best variegation.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist πŸ’§
  • Divide every few years to promote healthy growth
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid drought conditions ❌
  • Do not plant in dry, sandy soils without amendments
  • Refrain from over-fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with variegated foliageOrnamental grass featureMoisture-loving garden edge

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Variegated Baumea questions

What zones can Variegated Baumea grow in?

Variegated Baumea is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Variegated Baumea deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Variegated Baumea, especially tender spring growth β€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Variegated Baumea bloom?

Variegated Baumea typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Variegated Baumea need full sun?

Variegated Baumea does best in part shade.

Is Variegated Baumea drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Variegated Baumea handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Variegated Baumea with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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