Species Prairie Straw Sedge

Prairie Straw Sedge

Carex suberecta

Prairie Straw Sedge (Carex suberecta) is a perennial, native sedge found in wet and dry prairies, meadows,and woodlands. It can reach a height of 1 to 2 feet with narrow, straw-colored foliage that is fragrant when crushed. This species has small, yellow-green, spike-like flower clusters that appear between May and July and provide early season food for wildlife. Prairie Straw Sedge is tolerant of a wide variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained, sandy soils in full sun. It is an ideal choice for rain gardens, naturalizing, or adding texture to a low maintenance landscape.

Watering:

Average

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Eastern Straw Sedge needs to be watered once a week, using approximately 2 gallons of water. When watering, make sure to saturate the soil around the plant and be sure to keep the leaves dry. Water at the base of the plant to minimize leaf damage. If planted in a container, it is important to allow for continual drainage.

sunlight

Eastern Straw Sedge benefits from full sun exposure for at least 6 hours each day, although it can tolerate a bit more shade. Ideally, it should be given morning sun and some afternoon shade to protect its foliage in summer. Due to its preference for full sun, its best planted in an area where it will get direct sunlight for most of the day. This will help it grow more robustly and encourage blooming.

pruning

Eastern Straw Sedge (Carex straminea) should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Cut back the foliage to 12-18 inches from the ground. Dead or broken foliage should also be removed. This will encourage healthy new growth and will maintain the plant’s natural shape. When pruning, be sure to use sharp and sanitized shears.

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