Species Frank's sedge
Lime spikelet with stems, lime leaves

Frank's sedge

Carex frankii

Frank's sedge (Carex frankii) is an amazing species of plant that is well worth admiring. It's a low-growing perennial sedge that is native to the eastern United States and forms masses of thin, spiky foliage. It is a clump-forming plant that has an evergreen habit forming spreading clumps with pointed, upright leaves in medium to light green. It blooms in spring with insignificant but attractive reddish-purple flowers. It can adapt to a wide range of soil types and prefers a sunny spot but will part shade to full sun. It's drought and cold tolerant making it an easy-care choice for a landscape or garden. Frank's sedge is ideal for xeriscaping or for areas where low-maintenance plants are required and it's sure to draw perfect amount of attention.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Green Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Clay, Loam

Fruits:

red,brown Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Frank's sedge should be watered once or twice a week, taking care not to over-water. A good rule of thumb is to wait until the soil is dry to a depth of 1 inch, then water until the soil is saturated. Allow the soil to dry out again before watering again. In the warmest months, such as summer, the plant may require more frequent waterings. When watering, make sure to avoid wetting the foliage as this can lead to disease issues.

sunlight

Frank's sedge (Carex frankii) generally prefers bright but indirect sunlight or partial shade. The amount of sunlight required depends on the season and climate that the plant is being grown in. In summer months, Frank's sedge should receive up to 4 hours of direct sunlight per day. During the winter months, when the days are shorter, it should be kept in a location that receives less sunlight. It is important to protect the plant from direct sunlight, as it can cause leaf scorch. It prefers to receive morning sunlight and should be shielded from afternoon sunlight, if possible.

pruning

Frank's sedge should be pruned in the winter when the plant is dormant. Pruning should be done to remove dead leaves and stems, and to shape the plant. Pruning should be light and done in moderation, avoiding drastic shearing. In general, it is best to remove no more than 1-third of the foliage at any 1 time. Trimming the plant can also help it to retain a more natural, bushy shape.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Frank's sedge typically starts flowering in May.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Carex frankii typically begins in late June and continues through August.

Hardiness Map