Species Little Prickly Sedge
lime spikelets with yellow-green stems

Little Prickly Sedge

Carex echinata

Also Known As - Star Sedge
Little Prickly Sedge (Carex echinata) is a small, tufted grass-like sedge. It has narrow, blade-like leaves which stand erect in a star-like shape. The flower stalks are short and slim, reaching up to 8″ in length. Its tiny, oblong-shaped fruits are covered with sharp, spiky hairs, giving them a unique texture. Growing mostly in moist meadows and prairies, Little Prickly Sedge can be used ornamental ponds, Bog Gardens and terrariums. It's low maintenance and easy to grow, and its evergreen foliage provides contrast for rock gardens and walkways.

Watering:

Average

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Narrow leaved sedge (Carex duriuscula) should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water once a week during the growing season, usually Spring or Summer, ensuring the soil is sufficiently moist but not soggy. In the Fall and Winter, these plants may require less frequent watering as they go into a dormant state. Allow the soil to dry out a bit more between watering. Monitor the soil and if it feels dry, water the plant. Check for signs of withering and provide supplemental water if necessary.

sunlight

Narrow Leaved Sedge (Carex duriuscula) requires full sun to partial shade and should receive 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Morning sun is preferable to afternoon sun, as intense afternoon sun can be too much for this species. When planted in hot climates, partial shade may be beneficial, especially during the hottest summer months when direct sunlight is more intense. Narrow Leaved Sedge tolerates light shade very well and may not bloom profusely in heavy shade.

pruning

In the spring, the plants should be cut back to approximately 6 inches in height and have the dead or diseased foliage removed. In late summer, you should deadhead the plants by removing the flower heads. This will help promote new growth and keep the plants looking tidy. Make sure to use a sharp pair of pruning shears when pruning, and always make sure to leave at least 1 set of leaves on each stem. Pruning should be done when the plant is actively growing in the spring and late summer for best results.

Season

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

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