Species Short Scale Sedge
light-green spikelets with foliage

Short Scale Sedge

Carex deweyana

Also Known As - Dewey's Sedge
Short Scale Sedge (Carex deweyana) is a small perennial grass-like plant native to North America. Its grass-like foliage grows in tufts and reaches heights of up to 20 cm. The clumps of delicate light green leaves have a white stripe in the middle. It blooms in summer and produces umbrella-shaped inflorescences in shades of brown. The species prefers full-sun to partial-shade environments and moist soils. It's a low-maintenance plant that propagates easily, making it a great choice for pollinator gardens and streamside restoration efforts. Its attractive foliage and attractive inflorescences make it an excellent choice for underplanting daylilies or hostas.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

Short Scale Sedge should be watered liberally and deeply about once a week whenever the first inch or so of soil feels dry to the touch. During particularly hot weather, this plant will need to be watered more often, up to twice per week. As soon as the soil stops beading up or starts to look dry, it's time to water again. Water until it runs freely from the bottom of the pot, then let the excess drain away.

sunlight

Short Scale Sedge typically prefers full sun to part shade. It typically requires 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day, and can tolerate both morning and afternoon sun. It does not do well in full shade because it produces too many leaves and not enough flowers. During the warmest months of the year, it may need some shade during the mid-day hours to avoid any sunburn.

pruning

Short Scale Sedge (Carex deweyana) should be lightly pruned each year in early spring, shortly before new growth begins. Pruning should focus on removing late winter growth, dead leaves, and any unsightly leaves. Pruning helps to promote new growth, maintain the desired shape of the plant, and improve air circulation. When pruning, it is important not to prune too aggressively, as this can damage the leaves and roots. If desired, cut the stems back to within 2-3 inches of the base to promote new growth and reduce the amount of space for pests to hide. Doing so will help keep this sedge looking attractive and healthy.