Species Smoothcone Sedge
brown flowers with light-green leaves and stems

Smoothcone Sedge

Carex laeviconica

Also Known As - Plains Slough Sedge
Smoothcone Sedge (Carex laeviconica) is a striking, perennial species of grass. Although found in parts of Europe and western Asia, it is primarily native to North America, from Alaskan tundra to the Rocky Mountains. This sedge features glossy, off-green foliage which grows arranged in fan-like clumps. Its inflorescences have attractive silvery-gray spikes and are often hidden among its foliage. This species is drought-tolerant and can even withstand occasional flooding, making it a versatile option for a wide range of garden environments. Whether planted in groups or as an accent piece, the striking smoothcone sedge provides stunning texture and contrast to any landscape.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Yellow|Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Loam

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Smoothcone Sedge should be watered a few times a week. Depending on your climate and time of year, you may need to water more or less. In warmer seasons, it may need to be watered every 2-3 days, while in cooler seasons it can go up to a week between waterings. Water it deeply and allow the top inch or so of soil to dry between waterings. Make sure not to overwater as this could lead to root rot.

sunlight

Smoothcone Sedge prefers full sun and can tolerate part shade, but continuous shade should be avoided. It prefers moist to wet soil and is a good choice for rain gardens, low meadows, and other moist environment. It is hardy to zones 4-9, so it can tolerate light frosts. During the spring and summer, Smoothcone Sedge benefits from an average of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. In the winter, the amount of sunlight can be reduced; however, it should receive at least 2 to 3 hours of direct sunlight to keep its foliage healthy.

pruning

Smoothcone Sedge should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This should be done right before the start of the growing season, as this is when the plant is least susceptible to stress. When pruning, feel free to remove any dead or damaged foliage in order to promote healthy new growth. Start by cutting back any remaining dead foliage to the base of the plant and then removing any dead flower heads. You can also shape the plant’s form by selectively thinning back long shoots by half of their length. This will encourage a fuller look and help the plant to retain an upright form. In some instances, it may also be beneficial to cut some growth back to the ground. Making these cuts near the base of the plant can help to promote healthy new growth that will give the plant good overall structure.

Season

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

Smoothcone Sedge typically starts flowering in April.