Species Sea Beach Sedge

Sea Beach Sedge

Carex silicea

Also Known As - Beach Sedge
Sea Beach Sedge (Carex silicea) is an interesting and prolific plant species that is native to the coastal areas of western North America. It grows in salt marshes and sandy areas near the seashore, making it quite resilient in harsh conditions. Its bright green leaves and yellowish-brown stems make it stand out amongst other beach plants. Sea Beach Sedge produces bright green flowers that can be used in coastal gardening as a low-maintenance ground cover or accent plant. Additionally, its salt-tolerant characteristics make it an excellent choice for regions with salty air or heavy coastal winds.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun

Soil:

Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Sea Beach Sedge is a low growing evergreen plant that requires little watering. It prefers soils that are kept slightly moist, and does not tolerate wet soils. When establishing newly planted Sea Beach Sedge, water the plants once a week with a deep soaking. Once the plants are firmly established, water them every 2 to 3 weeks. Water the Sea Beach Sedge in the morning, avoiding wetting the foliage, as it may cause leaf problems. During summer months, hot and dry conditions may require more frequent watering, about every 10-14 days, depending on the soil condition and weather in your area. Furthermore, during extended hot and dry periods, winter, or if the plants become wilted, water them more frequently.

sunlight

Sea Beach Sedge (Carex silicea) requires between 5-8 hours of full sun per day. It should be planted in a location that receives full sun in the morning and partial shade in the afternoon. Avoid planting in a location where it would receive direct afternoon sun since the intense heat and dryness could damage the plant. As a coastal species, it also prefers a briny atmosphere and will do best when planted near the ocean or at least within 100 feet of the beach.

pruning

Sea Beach Sedge should be pruned once a year in late spring or early summer, after the wet season and prior to summer flowering. Pruning should be light and careful to ensure that the plant does not become overly crowded and that the foliage does not become damaged. The terminal flower-seed heads can be cut back to the nearest leaf node, resulting in a much bushier looking plant. This will keep the foliage looking healthy and encourage more growth. Any dead or damaged foliage should be removed at this time as well.

Season

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

Sea Beach Sedge typically starts flowering in June.