Species Spikenard Sedge

Spikenard Sedge

Carex nardina

Also Known As - Nard Sedge,Spike Sedge
Spikenard Sedge (Carex nardina) is a stunning Northern California, and Oregon native wetland grass. It grows in 2-4 ft. tall erect clumps with green stems and fuzzy green leaves in the spring that turn to a dark brownish-bronze color in the late summer. The female flowers have yellow spiky globes that resemble arrowheads, while the male flower spikes stand tall and slender with light green tails. It prefers partial to full sun, and wet to wet/dry conditions. It’s an excellent choice for edging, as a backdrop for water gardens, or as a specimen plant in any garden. With its attractive foliage, it is sure to add a unique touch to any garden.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun

Soil:

Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Spikenard Sedge should be watered approximately once a week. The frequency of waterings should depend on the climate and soil conditions. In general, water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. When in doubt, it is better to underwater than to overwater. To ensure that the plant gets an even amount of moisture, water in a way that saturates the soil instead of just sprinkling a few drops. Doing this will allow the water to reach the roots of the Spikenard Sedge.

sunlight

Spikenard Sedge (Carex nardina) thrives in semi-shaded to full shade areas, growing best in areas that receive filtered or dappled sunlight for significant portions of the day. During summer months, the plant's ideal sunlight may range from 2-4 hours per day. During winter months, the plant will need about 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.

pruning

Spikenard Sedge (Carex nardina) should be pruned in late winter or early spring after any signs of new growth. Prune your Spikenard Sedge to remove any dead foliage and flower stalks or remove any stems that are forming an impenetrable mat. Trim out unhealthy or congested clumps by pulling out small sections of runners. Also, it is important to cut back the larger culms at ground level so that new growth will emerge. Avoid pruning too heavily as this will reduce the plant's attractive foliage and flower.

Season

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

Spikenard Sedge typically starts flowering in May.