Species Salt Marsh Sedge
brown-lime spikelets with green-yellow foliage

Salt Marsh Sedge

Carex recta

Also Known As - Estuary Sedge
Salt Marsh Sedge (Carex recta) is a species of grass-like tufted perennial plants found commonly in marshy and coastal areas. It grows in a variety of habitats, such as sandy or muddy shores, salt flats, and marshes. Its slender stems support thin triangular blades that are deep green, often shaded purple. Supple floral spikes are displayed in shades of brown and pink. Salt Marsh Sedge spreads through rhizomes, forming dense masses. It is tolerant of salt, wind, and drought, and provides important shelter for shoreline birds such as oystercatchers and terns.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun

Fruits:

brown Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Loose Flowered Sedge usually requires moderate amounts of water for optimal health. It should be watered when the soil is completely dry to the touch, but no less than once a week during the growing season (April to October). In hotter climates, an additional watering may be necessary. In the winter months, when the plant is in a dormant state, water should be limited to only when the soil is totally dry. Too much water during the fall and winter can cause root rot and stunt the growth of the plant.

sunlight

Loose Flowered Sedge thrives best in full to partial sunlight, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. It prefers very moist soils during the hot and dry summer months, but is tolerant of more moderate soil moisture throughout the year. When grown in dry conditions, the amount of sunlight should be decreased to 3-4 hours a day. For optimal growth, it is best to provide Loose Flowered Sedge with bright, indirect sunlight for the majority of the day, followed by direct sunlight for only a few hours.

pruning

Loose Flowered Sedge (Carex rariflora) should be pruned in late winter or early spring, after the coldest weather has passed. Pruning should be fairly minimal, focusing on removing any dead, damaged or diseased foliage, as well as thinning out older foliage to encourage new growth. Light trimming at this time can also help keep the plant neat and tidy. To keep the plant looking fresh, it is also recommended to prune away any seed heads that form and lightly trim the plant every few years.

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.