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:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Prickly Bog Sedge requires moist soil conditions and should be kept consistently damp. Water the plant during the summer months, enough to keep the soil moist but not too wet. Ideally, water the plant once a week, but frequency of watering may vary depending on your environment, such as heat and air circulation. Water from the base of the plant but avoid getting the foliage wet. During the winter, keep the soil just barely moist. Do not overwater or allow the soil to become soggy.

sunlight

Prickly Bog Sedge grows best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers direct sunlight for 4-6 hours each day and will tolerate some shade. To get the best growth, it is best to keep its location consistent each day.

pruning

Prickly Bog Sedge (Carex atlantica) should be pruned annually for best results. Pruning should begin in late winter or early spring when the plant is in its dormant stage. Cut back stems to the base of the plant by trimming them with hand pruners or shears. This will encourage new growth that will bring a denser, more vigorous plant. After the dormant pruning, additional pruning may be necessary throughout the growing season to help shape and groom the foliage. Remove spent flowers and seed heads to encourage regrowth and help maintain an attractive form. Removing any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage should also be done to promote healthy growth.

Season

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

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