Species Capitate Sedge
brown spikelets with lime foliage

Capitate Sedge

Carex capitata

Capitate Sedge (Carex capitata) is a species in the Cyperaceae family that grows in wet meadows, marshes, lake shores and stream banks. It has a creeping root system and can grow in a clumping form. Its stems grow to a height of 20 - 40cm, and they are unbranched, with a terminal spikelet. It is characterized by its pale yellow to brown flower heads, which are small and ovoid in shape. It also has narrow leaves that can reach up to 8cm in length, with lighter colors towards their bases. This plant blooms in late summer and thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is an ideal plant species for erosion control and is a great addition to any garden.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Capitate Sedge (Carex capitata) should be watered twice per week until it is established, then once a week. Each watering should provide enough to wet the soil to a depth of around 10 cm. During the warmer months, water more frequently and ensure the soil remains moist. During the winter months, it should be watered less frequently, but not allowed to dry out completely.

sunlight

Capitate Sedge (Carex capitata) is a species of flowering plant in the sedge family that needs plenty of sun in order to thrive. This plant thrives best when exposed to direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. However, afternoon or early evening full sun is best as the plant can take on too much heat during midday sun in some climates. Additionally, the plant will still grow in partial shade, but it will not reach the same size as it would in full sun. Good air circulation should also be provided to help prevent the leaves from developing fungal disease.

pruning

Capitate Sedge should be pruned twice a year in early spring and late fall. For spring pruning, remove all dead foliage and branches. Cut back any overly tall or weak growth to create a shapely and balanced structure. Make all cuts close to the base of the plant. For fall pruning, remove any dead foliage, dying flowers, and faded seed headsto encourage fresh, new foliage and flowers in the spring. When pruning, avoid removing more than ⅓ of the plant at any 1 time. The newly cut ends of the stems and branches can be lightly trimmed with a pair of shears.