Species Great Smoky Mountain Sedge

Great Smoky Mountain Sedge

Carex proposita

Great Smoky Mountain Sedge (Carex proposita) is a species of tufted grass-like perennial sedge, native to the higher elevations of temperate North America. It grows in sunny woodland and bog locations. The leaves are short and narrow with hairy tips, and the flowers are small and yellow-green. It spreads by rhizome and self seeding, forming dense clumps and sending up culms 6 to10 inches tall. The foliage turns golden in autumn, creating a beautiful contrast between the dark evergreen trees. Great Smoky Mountain Sedge is salt tolerant and cold hardy. It is an ideal addition to shady spots in a wildlife garden, and can sustain a variety of interesting insect life.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Root Division

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

This plant species prefers moist soil, though once established can withstand dry periods. It should be watered about once a week during the growing season, being sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy. In the winter, it should be watered less often, only every few weeks, depending on the climate. Generally, watering should be reduced in cooler temperatures and increased in warmer temperatures. Additionally, if the area is receiving excessive rain, or if the soil is so marshy that water does not drain away, water should be reduced.

sunlight

The Great Smoky Mountain Sedge is a sun-loving plant species that requires at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. It does best when exposed to full sun in the early morning or late afternoon hours, and can tolerate some light shade in the middle of the day. In the growth season, April through August, the plant requires 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Additionally, the Great Smoky Mountain Sedge thrives in well-drained, moist, acidic soils.

pruning

Great Smoky Mountain Sedge (Carex proposita) can be pruned once a year in the spring, after flowering has ceased and the new shoots are visible. Prune the dead stems at the base, cutting away any browning foliage that may be present. Prune the stems down to the ground for each established plant. This will encouragec healthy growth in the coming season and help control the size of the plants. Alternatively, lightly prune the top of each stem to encourage branching and a fuller look. Be sure not to remove more than 1 third of the foliage at 1 time.