Species Cloud Sedge
brown spikelets, light-purple flowers, yellow-green foliage and stems

Cloud Sedge

Carex haydeniana

Also Known As - Hayden's Sedge
Cloud Sedge is a species of sedge native to North America. It grows in damp areas such as roadside ditches, wet meadows, and shorelines. The leafy tufts of Cloud Sedge have a distinctive wispy, grayish-green appearance and can reach up to 45cm in height. The small yellow-brown flowers appear in spring and give off a sweet scent. The leaves and stems are edible, and the plant has been used both for food and medicinal purposes. It is a popular ornamental species in gardens, providing an interesting texture and movement in the landscape.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Cloud Sedge should be watered frequently, about once a week, depending on the weather. During hot or dry periods, water more often, but avoid over-watering as this can cause root rot. When you water, do it in the morning so the leaves have time to dry out before evening. If possible, use filtered or rainwater. When you water, try to keep the foliage dry as wet foliage can cause fungal issues. If needed, use a pH-neutral fertilizer 2-3 times per season.

sunlight

Cloud Sedge (Carex haydeniana) prefers to grow in locations that are partially shaded or lightly shaded, and it is not tolerant of full sun exposure. Sunlight requirements are best met when placed in a location that receives 4-6 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight per day. This species does best in areas that receive bright morning or mid-day light and shadier times during the afternoon heat of the day. In areas that are particularly hot and dry, Cloud Sedge may require some afternoon filtered shade.

pruning

Cloud Sedge should be pruned in early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. Pruning should be done by cutting back stems to just above the new growth or to a desirable height. Pruning should be done cautiously, as too much removal of the foliage can cause dieback to the crown. Additionally, the foliage should be cut at an angle. To promote a bushier form, prune back the center stems of the cloud sedge to encourage the growth of lateral stems. Pruning can also help control the size of the plant and remove any dead or diseased stems.

Season

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

Cloud Sedge typically starts flowering in May.