Sitka Sedge typically starts flowering in June.
Sitka Sedge
Carex aquatilis var. dives
Sitka Sedge is a species of moist meadows, wet meadows and riparian zones native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. It grows to about 1.2 meters in height with a grass-like appearance, with evergreen, narrow, linear leaves, olive-brown in color. The flowers are tiny and dioecious (separate male and female plants), with many long inflorescences held high. The heart-shaped seed capsules are covered in hairs and contain tiny dark seeds. It is tolerant of a wide range of site conditions and can be found growing in standing water, along streams and wetlands. It is an important food source for a wide variety of animals, aiding in plant dispersal and helping restore degraded habitats.
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Rhizome Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
Flowers:
Green/Brown Flowers
Sun:
full sun
Fruits:
Fruits Ready In
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Sitka Sedge grows best when watered consistently throughout the growing season. As a semi-aquatic plant, it can tolerate having its roots in damp conditions, and will need regular watering to keep it healthy. In generally warm and/or dry conditions, the plant should be watered around 1-2 inches twice per week. During spells of extreme hot weather, twice as much water may be needed.
sunlight
Sitka Sedge requires mostly full sun exposure (at least 6 hours per day). This can be provided by direct sunlight, or strong, indirect light. Too much sunlight or intense midday sun can burn the foliage, so ensure the plants receive some protection during the hottest part of the day, such as afternoon shade. Sitka Sedge can also tolerate light shade, but this may reduce its growth and flowering potential.
pruning
Pruning should be done once every 1-2 years in the early spring, late winter or even late summer/early fall when the plant is actively growing. Start by cutting back all of the longest stems to just below the desired size, then trim any branches that are overhanging or rubbing against 1 another. Remove any dead or unhealthy stems and leaves and thin out any particularly dense areas.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Harvest Fruit
The harvesting season for Carex aquatilis var. dives (Sitka Sedge) typically begins in July and continues through August.
