Species Sartwell's Sedge
dark-brown spikelets with lime-green foliage and stems

Sartwell's Sedge

Carex sartwellii

Also Known As - Running Marsh Sedge
Sartwell's Sedge (Carex sartwellii) is a small, prairie wetland grass native to the United States’ Midwest. It's a perennial species with short, stiff blades that are bright light green. Its flowers are a reddish to yellowish color and blooms in mid to late summer. It is an important species in riparian wetlands as it helps with erosion control and can also act as a food provider for wildlife. It is fairly easy to care for and is tolerant to drought and flooding. It makes an attractive addition to any landscape, providing color and texture.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Stolon

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Sartwell's Sedge should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. There is no need to water the plant every day, once or twice per week should be enough. When watering, it is best to give the plant a good soak, applying enough water so that it flows from the bottom of the pot. Allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering.

sunlight

On average, Sartwell's Sedge needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It thrives best in full sun but can tolerate some dappled shade. Full sun exposure from early spring to mid-autumn will provide optimal growth conditions and encourage flowering and seed production. For regions with a hotter climate, Sartwell's Sedge should be protected by shade cloth during the hottest parts of the day. Too much direct, unprotected sunlight can cause damage to the plant.

pruning

Sartwell's Sedge should be pruned in the early spring and late fall once a year. Pruning should be done lightly and only dead, dying, or damaged parts of the plant should be removed. The cuttings should be made close to the ground to minimize spreading and keep the height of the plant short. If the sedge spreads too far, it should be divided and transplanted. Pruning should be done to help encourage a bushy, full look and to keep weeds and grass out of the area.

Season

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

Sartwell's Sedge typically starts flowering in May.