Species Western Inflated Sedge
lime-pink spikelets with green foliage

Western Inflated Sedge

Carex exsiccata

Also Known As - Beaked Sedge,Oxbow Sedge
The Western Inflated Sedge (Carex exsiccata) is a rare species of plant found in western North America. It lies between grasses and rushes in size, growing up to 60 centimeters in height. Its leaves are slender and green, with a distinct inflated tip. Its inflorescences are turned inwards, ensuring that the small, green perigynia are firmly held in place. This species is most commonly found in meadows, marshes, and similar wet habitats. It is an important species in providing food and shelter to wildlife in those environments.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

When it comes to watering Western Inflated Sedge (Carex exsiccata), plants should be watered deeply and infrequently. Water should be applied until it fills the depression the plant leaves in the soil when touched with your finger. To prevent over-watering, allow the soil to dry between waterings. New plants should receive more frequent watering than older plants. As a general rule, water once a week in hot, dry weather and once every 2-3 weeks in cool, moist weather. In colder climates with cold winters and dry air, additional watering may be necessary.

sunlight

Western Inflated Sedge is best suited to partial sun, meaning it should receive between 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. This amount of direct sunlight should be spread out across the day, either in the morning or afternoon, and should not exceed 6 hours. Placing the plant in a space that receives 8 hours or more of direct sunlight a day may cause its leaves to become scorched. Western Inflated Sedge thrives in partial or indirect sunlight in the summer months, and more direct sunlight in the winter months when days are shorter. On days with extended periods of cloud cover, it’s advised that the plant should be given more consistent sunlight.

pruning

Western Inflated Sedge (Carex exsiccata) should be pruned in early spring or late winter, at the start of the new growing season. Pruning should be done to remove dead, diseased, and overcrowded stems as well as to thin out for better air circulation. Avoid pruning more than 1/3 of the stems as this can be too harsh. Pruning can take place several times in 1 season if needed, but be mindful of how much is being taken away.

Season

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

Western Inflated Sedge typically starts flowering in April.