Species Spring Sedge
brown-green spikelet with yellow-green stem

Spring Sedge

Carex caryophyllea var. caryophyllea

Spring Sedge (Carex caryophyllea var. caryophyllea) is a perennial grass-like native plant found growing in moist woods, wetlands, and prairies. It features stiff, erect stems reaching a foot to two feet tall with very fine grass-like foliage. Rich green foliage is dotted with yellow-brown spikelets of flowers through mid to late spring. Preferring moist to wet soils and full to part shade, Spring Sedge makes an attractive addition to moist meadows, woodlands, and stream margins. The flowers have a long bloom period and provide food for pollinators. Drought tolerant once established, it is easy to grow and maintain.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Spring Sedge should be watered once per week or when the soil feels dry. Water the plant thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Allow the pot to dry out between waterings. During the hottest months, it is best to water more frequently but do not allow the soil to become soggy. In the winter, water less frequently or only when the soil feels dry.

sunlight

Spring sedge enjoys plenty of sunlight and can thrive in many light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. In areas with plenty of sunlight, it is best to provide at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. In areas with moderate light, spring sedge can handle 4 to 6 hours of direct sun daily. In climates with less light, the plant should be protected from the harsh effects of direct sunlight and receive 2 to 4 hours of indirect sunlight each day. Dappled sunlight is best for this species in climates with low light.

pruning

Spring Sedge (Carex caryophyllea var. caryophyllea) does not require frequent pruning. Generally, the plant should be pruned every 2 or 3 years to improve its overall shape and health. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. To prune, first remove any dead, diseased, or damaged foliage and stems. Then use sharp shears to trim the plant back to a desired size and shape, aiming to maintain the natural shape of the plant as much as possible. Make sure to clean the shears before and after use with rubbing alcohol or another disinfectant to prevent the spread of disease.