Species Rough Sedge
lime-brown spikelets with lime foliage and stems

Rough Sedge

Carex scabrata

Also Known As - Eastern Rough Sedge
Rough Sedge (Carex scabrata) is a perennial plant native to parts of Europe and North America. It grows in open meadows and fields, preferring wet areas and much sun. This plant can reach up to 30cm in height and has narrow, triangular leaves with rough spike-like appendages that are green-brown in colour. Its flower spike is brown and its fruits are black. It is a versatile plant, offering advantages to both gardeners and wildlife. Its foliage reduces soil erosion and its flowers attract pollinators such as bees. All in all, Rough Sedge is a beneficial addition to any outdoor setting.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade, Deciduous Shade (Spring Sun)

Soil:

Loam, Humus Enriched

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Rough Sedge should be watered regularly but not frequently to help the plant establish a healthy root system. Generally, watering once every 7-10 days should be enough. Water thoroughly and deeply to ensure the soil is moist, but not in a soggy state. To check if it is time to water again, stick your finger into the soil to a depth of roughly 2 inches and feel if it is still damp. If it is dry, it is time to water again.

sunlight

Rough Sedge plants need between 4 and 6 hours of direct sunlight each day in order to thrive. During the summer months, when the days are longest and the sunlight is most intense, direct sun is beneficial to these plants only in the early morning and late evening. During the spring, autumn, and winter, direct sunlight is best during the middle of the day. Additionally, the Rough Sedge will do best when placed in an area with indirect light during the remainder of the day.

pruning

Rough Sedge (Carex scabrata) should be pruned late-spring to early-summer, after the plant’s grown new shoots. Pruning strength should be light since this plant species is sensitive to hard pruning. Start by removing the oldest and most damaged stems, as well as any that are crossing or rubbing against others. If the plant is unruly or grown too tall, prune the stems back by up to 1-third. For a nice shape, cut stems to 1 height or round over the top. To improve the plant's overall health, trim off seed heads if forming.

Season

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

Rough Sedge typically starts flowering in May.