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

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Clay, Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Scorched Alpine Sedge should be given an average, light watering once per week. A thorough deep soaking is preferable to frequent light waterings. Depending on the humidity and weather conditions, you may have to adjust the frequency and amount of water for the plant. If the air is very dry, you may need to water every 4-5 days. If the air is very humid, you may need to water every 7-10 days. Be sure to monitor the soil moisture regularly. The soil should be moist but not soggy, and should never completely dry out. During the growing season, additional water may be required during periods of drought.

sunlight

Scorched Alpine Sedge is native to alpine and subalpine ecosystems and requires full sunlight to thrive. It thrives best in areas receiving direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day during the growing season. It can tolerate short periods of partial shade, but the plant will become weak and die if it receives too much shade. The plant benefits from a cool environment and should therefore not be planted in areas with very hot temperatures. In the winter, when sunlight is lower due to shorter days, the plant does not require as much light and should survive without getting burned.

pruning

Scorched Alpine Sedge should be pruned lightly in late winter or early spring. This plant benefits from light pruning to encourage dense growth and help maintain its compact size. Pruning should involve removing any brown and dried foliage and any dead or weak stems that may be present. Pruning should be done carefully to avoid damage to the crown. This species can also be lightly pruned to shape or thin out overcrowded areas. Cut back stems to the base of the plant to encourage bushier growth. Avoid cutting lower than a third of the plant, as it may not recover.

Season

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

Scorched Alpine Sedge typically starts flowering in June.