Species Howe's Sedge

Howe's Sedge

Carex atlantica subsp. capillacea

Also Known As - Eastern Sedge,Prickly Bog Sedge
Howe’s Sedge is a member of the Carex atlantica subspecies which is native to North America. The plant's blades are bright green and vary in size between two to four feet, with flower spikes that are up to eight inches tall. Under the right conditions, Howe’s Sedge can form large clumps along the edges of marshes, freshwater streams, and damp woodlands. This species is a coastal plant, so it prefers salty air and sandy, moist soils. It is an attractive, upright plant and makes for an excellent ornamental plant in moist, soil-filled areas. Howe’s Sedge is an invaluable part of natural wetland ecosystems and can be found growing throughout much of the United States.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Clay, Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Howe's Sedge should be watered at least 1-2 times per week, and should be kept evenly moist. Water should be applied to the soil and around the base of the plant, being careful not to overwater. Water in the morning when possible, as this allows any water that runs off the soil to evaporate before nightfall. Avoid wetting the foliage of the plant, as this can cause fungal diseases. In the hottest parts of summer, Howe's Sedge may require more frequent watering.

sunlight

Howe's Sedge prefers full sunlight for optimal development and growth. It should be given a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day in the growing season (from late spring to early fall). Howe's Sedge flourishes best in slightly moist soil and needs little to moderate watering as it is indeed drought-tolerant. During the cooler winter months, it can be moved to a spot with partial shade or indirect sun, where it will remain dormant. It will only need a small amount of water if the soil dries out.

pruning

Howe's Sedge should be pruned twice a year during the early and late season. Pruning in early spring is important to remove dead and damaged foliage. In late summer or fall, remove the flower heads to maintain a neat growth habit and encourage new foliage. When pruning, be sure to make clean cuts and avoid damaging existing foliage. Take care not to remove the entire plant or more than a third of the stem. Proper pruning can help enhance the health and appearance of the Howe's Sedge.

Season

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

The Howe's Sedge typically starts flowering in May.