Family
Cyperaceae
Botanical Name
CAREX caryophyllea
Plant Common Name
Spring Sedge
Special Notice
This entry has yet to be reviewed and approved by L2G editors.
General Description
The spring sedge is mid-sized sedge grown for its evergreen tufts of shaggy, narrow leaves. In mid spring, tall stalks of tan seeds emerge; this is the earliest sedge to flower. It spreads by rhizomes and can reach several feet across. The spring sedge is native to the northeastern United States where it thrives in moist soil in partial to full shade.
Grow the spring sedge in constantly moist, alkaline soil. Do not let it dry out. Trim off any dead foliage in the early spring. With time, this sedge will spread to form a colony. Plant it in groups as a groundcover, or singly as an accent plant where its year-long unusual texture will liven up the shade. It also makes an excellent addition to bog gardens or rock gardens.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
9 - 7
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USDA Hardiness Zone
7 - 11
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Plant Type
Sedge or Rush
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
3'-4' / 0.9m - 1.2m
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Width
4'-6' / 1.2m - 1.8m
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Bloom Time
Spring
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Native To
Northeastern United States
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
Tan
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Dark Green
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
Semi-Evergreen
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Showy Bark
Yes
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Bog Garden, Container, Feature Plant, Groundcover, Rock Garden / Wall
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
Sometimes
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Self-Sowing
Yes
