Species Star Sedge
lime-brown spikelets with stems

Star Sedge

Carex echinata subsp. echinata

Star Sedge (Carex echinata subsp. echinata) is an interesting plant species found in the coastal areas of Europe, Africa, North and South America. Its attractive foliage makes it a popular choice for landscaping. The species’ leaves have a star-shaped pattern and a ruffled texture. This small perennial grows up to 15 cm in height with glabrous culms that are flat triangular in cross-section. Its dark green leaves have usually five to nine veins and slender, pointed tips. The plant bears female flowers in the upper part of the spikes and androgynous in the lower part of the spikes. This species reproduces by seed. Its rhizomes can reach up to 11 cm deep in the soil. In addition, its edgewise inflorescences are long-lasting and usually cared by outdoor enthusiasts and professionals.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Star Sedge prefers moist but not soggy soil and prefers to be watered regularly. Water deeply at least once per week, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. If the soil gets too soggy you can reduce watering to every other week. In hotter temperatures you may need to water more frequently. Water that is just lukewarm is most beneficial for Star Sedge.

sunlight

Star Sedge usually thrives in sunny, open areas. It prefers full sun to partial shade, meaning that it should receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight every day. The optimal period for sunlight for Star Sedge is during the day, when the sun is at its highest strength and angle. When planting Star Sedge, care should be taken to ensure that it will receive enough sunlight throughout the day since an insufficient amount of sunlight can cause the plant to wilt and die. During the hottest part of the day, it is best to provide some shade for the plant so that it can conserve energy and protect its delicate leaves from the scorching sun. Star Sedge will also benefit from light shading during the evening and early morning hours.

pruning

Star Sedge should be pruned twice a year to promote healthy growth. Pruning in late winter or early spring will help remove any dead or diseased growth as well as provide an opportunity to shape the plants as needed. Pruning in late summer will allow for thinner, denser growth. Both prunings should be light, using scissors or pruners to keep the plant looking tidy.