Species Slough Sedge
gray-brown spikelets with lime-green foliage and stems

Slough Sedge

Carex obnupta

Also Known As - Tall Basket Grass
Slough Sedge (Carex obnupta) is a perennial, wetland grass native to North America. Growing in moist or flooded areas, this grass has long, slender, flexible stems that sway in the wind. Slough Sedge is a low-growing, clump-forming species that reach a height of 12-24 inches (30-60 cm). The leaves measure about 1/8 inch (3 mm) wide and have a light green color. Its showy, yellowish-green flowers bloom in late summer, providing food for a variety of wildlife. Slough Sedge is an attractive native grass that thrives in wet areas, and adds interest and texture to water gardens, marshes, and other landscape settings.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun

Soil:

Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,black

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Black Alpine Sedge is a drought-tolerant plant species and requires minimal watering. During the spring and summer months, provide water to the plants every 10-14 days or when the soil feels dry to the touch. During the fall and winter months, watering can be reduced to every 1-2 weeks. Aim to water the plants deeply and slowly in order to avoid saturating the soil which can increase the risk of root rot. Make sure to avoid over-watering the plants as this can stunt their growth.

sunlight

Black Alpine Sedge plants prefer full or partial sun and will do best when grown in a location that gets at least 5-6 hours of sunlight per day. They thrive in cooler climates and may perform poorly if grown in warmer regions or in areas exposed to prolonged middle-of-the-day heat. These plants require well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, so avoid soggy soils.

pruning

Black Alpine Sedge should be pruned in late summer or early autumn, typically starting in the late July or early August. Pruning should aim to remove dead or diseased foliage, as well as any stray branches that are growing outside of the desired shape of the plant. Additionally, pruning should thin out lightly thicker patches to encourage air movement and new growth. Generally, pruning should be light, as this plant does not require a lot of trimming. If desired, a small amount of pruning may also be done in the early spring to further shape the plant.

Season

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

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