Species Plantainleaf Sedge
green-lime foliage

Plantainleaf Sedge

Carex plantaginea

Plantainleaf Sedge (Carex plantaginea) is an elegant, clumping grass-like plant native to North America. This hardy species has triangular blades that reach ½ to 2 feet in height and can spread quickly to form large, dense colonies. The flowers are tightly clustered, giving the plant an overall uniform look. It grows best in open, moist to wet meadows, marshes, and swamps, making it an ideal choice for areas that need additional cover. The distinctive foliage is deep green to bluish-green and ranges from 1 to 3 feet in width. Once established, Plantainleaf Sedge is very persistent and drought tolerant, and it can be an attractive landscape accent. Its attractive foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for any landscape.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Rhizome Propagation,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Purple|Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Shade, Deciduous Shade (Spring Sun)

Soil:

Loam, Humus Enriched

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water Plantainleaf Sedge every 7 to 10 days with about 1 to 2 inches of water. Make sure to water evenly, soaking the entire root zone. The water should penetrate deep into the soil, and you may need additional irrigation during hot or extended dry spells to ensure the plant is adequately hydrated.

sunlight

Plantainleaf Sedge (Carex plantaginea) is a perennial plant that thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist to wet soil conditions. It can tolerate periods of drought if given enough water. Full sun is best for growth and flowering, although this plant can also tolerate some shade in the afternoon. When grown in part shade, Plantainleaf Sedge may take longer to reach its maximum height. The optimal amount of sunlight for Plantainleaf Sedge is 6 to 8 hours daily. When grown in full sun, this plant can handle some hot sun in the morning, but it should be protected from strong afternoon rays which can cause sunburn and wilting. This species also benefits from indirect sunlight throughout the day.

pruning

Plantainleaf Sedge should be pruned yearly in early spring, just before new growth begins. The best time to prune is in late March or early April, just before new growth begins on the plant. Pruning should be done lightly, by removing only a few of the oldest, least productive stems from the edge of the plant. Regular pruning can help to open up the center of the plant and promote new, lush growth. It is important to prune only enough material to keep the plant healthy and shapely. Excessive pruning can damage stems and limit the plant's ability to produce new growth.

Season

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

Plantainleaf Sedge typically starts flowering in May.