Species Blackened Sedge
brown-beige spikelets with green foliage and stems

Blackened Sedge

Carex atrata

Blackened Sedge (Carex atrata) is an attractive, slow-growing evergreen plant native to Asia. It features thin, dark green, slender leaves that turn purple-black in cold temperatures. This plant is perfect for ground cover, edging, or as a low border in part-shade to full shade gardens. Blackened Sedge's small flowers bloom in the spring, and it requires regular watering. In fall, the leaves may turn a beautiful maroon color. Planting and maintaining this species is easy and incredibly rewarding, as the contrast between its dark foliage and its bright flowers make it a unique and stunning addition to any garden.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Blackened Sedge should be watered thoroughly but infrequently. During the summer months, a deep watering once per week is recommended. It should be avoided to get the leaves wet during the hot summer months. During the winter, watering can be reduced to once a month. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. When watering, soak the soil until damp but not waterlogged.

sunlight

Blackened Sedge (Carex atrata) typically grows best in full sunlight and does best when exposed to 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. It can handle some partial shade, but this should be limited to light shade for no more than 2 to 3 hours in the afternoon. If grown in too much or too little shade, it may become leggy, thin, and lose its lovely shape. If grown in full sun its foliage will stay lush and deep green.

pruning

Blackened Sedge (Carex atrata) should be pruned in early spring before new growth begins. Pruning encourages the plant to branch out, which will improve its shape and overall size. To prune, cut back the stems that are too long and those that are dead or damaged. You can also divide overcrowded clumps of the sedge during this time. Doing this will promote a bushier habit that will both look better and manage better. It is beneficial to remove flower heads because they will take away the plants energy and strength to focus on foliage growth.