Species Scorched Alpine Sedge
purple-black spikelets with green leaves and stems

Scorched Alpine Sedge

Carex atrofusca

Also Known As - Darkbrown Sedge
Scorched Alpine Sedge (Carex atrofusca) is a perennial sedge species that provides a beautiful addition to any terrain. It is native to Europe and North America and grows up to about 15-30 cm in height. This sedge is an extremely drought-tolerant species, thriving in dry or sandy soils. Its leaves are also quite fine and delicate, covered in small yellow-brown scales. Flowers bloom during the summertime on average, displaying small brown-tipped and short spikelets. This sedge is an especially valuable species and should be protected in its natural habitat by introducing proper management practices.

Watering:

Minimal

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.

Season

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

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