Species Slender Beaked Sedge
brown spikelets, yellow-green foliage and stems

Slender Beaked Sedge

Carex athrostachya

Also Known As - Slenderbeak Sedge,Jointed Spike Sedge
Slender Beaked Sedge (Carex athrostachya) is a species of perennial sedge native to North America. It grows in wet and moist habitats, such as marshes, fens, ponds, and wet meadows. Its leaves are light green, usually three-veined, and up to 12 inches long. It has tall, upright stems that can grow to 4 feet high with slender, pointed spikes. The foliage is often dotted with small, dark fruits that attract various species of birds. All parts of the plant, including its roots, are edible and can be used as a flavoring. Slender Beaked Sedge is a perfect low-maintenance addition to any garden.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

This plant species do best when kept evenly moist or slightly moist. It can be watered 2-3 times a week, making sure the soil is moist but not over saturated or waterlogged. In the warmer months, it may need to be watered more often. During periods of extreme heat or low rainfall, Slender Beaked Sedge may need more frequent watering. In extreme conditions, it may need to be watered every day.

sunlight

Slender Beaked Sedge thrives in full sun to part shade. It can tolerate some periods of full sun or periods of full shade, but it is best to provide a minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight when possible. Planting in the morning or evening sun after the hottest part of the day is recommended. Too much direct sunlight during the middle of the day may scorch Slender Beaked Sedge’s delicate leaves. In areas with very hot climates, the plant may require more protection and shade.

pruning

Slender Beaked Sedge (Carex athrostachya) requires only minimal pruning as it’s a naturally low maintenance grass. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring. Begin by removing any dead and diseased stems, followed by cutting back the live foliage back to about 3 inches in height. This will encourage healthy, new growth in the coming season. Additionally, if the grass has outgrown its space, some of the outer edges can be carefully trimmed back with sharp shears or hedge clippers to create a desired look and shape.

Season

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

Carex athrostachya typically starts flowering in May.