Species Button Sedge
lime-green spikelets on green-brown stems

Button Sedge

Carex bullata

Also Known As - Bull Sedge
Button Sedge is a perennially-growing sedge species, known for its sprawling nature and occasional growth of up to 50 cm. It has a meadow-like appearance, with short erect stems and green leaves, comprised of multiple layers of narrow segments. Its fruit is globular and green, and is slightly hidden by the feathery panicles made from tiny flowers. These come in colours of white, yellow, and purple. Button Sedge is an ideal choice for coastal regions, as it is tolerant of salt and is able to resist the windy conditions often typical of these areas. Additionally, it is a beneficial species for pollinators, like bees, butterflies and other insects. In short, Button Sedge is a low-maintenance, perennial plant suitable for many environments, with practical benefits and a beautiful appearance.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part sun/part shade

Soil:

Sand, Loam

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Button Sedge prefers moist to wet soil and can tolerate standing water. During the active growth period from spring to fall, water the plant 1 to 2 times per week. Make sure to not over saturate the soil. In winter, water the plant only if there have been extended dry periods. When watering be sure to soak the soil thoroughly for best results. Soil should be kept most but not waterlogged.

sunlight

Button Sedge (Carex bullata) is best grown in full sun or partial shade. It prefers moist, dry soil with full sun exposure and regular watering. The plant should receive 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, and can tolerate up to 8 hours of direct sunlight. During hot summer days, afternoon shade is recommended. During winter months, 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight is sufficient. The plant should not be exposed to afternoon sunlight during the winter, as this can cause its foliage to yellow or dry out.

pruning

When pruning Button Sedge, it is best to remove spent foliage in the early spring using sharp pruning shears. It is preferable to only remove 1-third or less of the total foliage in 1 season. Doing so helps to keep the plant in good shape and encourages bushy new growth. Additionally, thinning out any overcrowded plants during the summer season can be beneficial for improved air circulation and light penetration, as well as preventing disease and pest infestation.

Season

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

Button Sedge typically starts flowering in April.