Species Hairy Fruited Sedge
lime-brown spikelets with green foliage

Hairy Fruited Sedge

Carex trichocarpa

Hairy Fruited Sedge (Carex trichocarpa) is a creeping perennial sedge found in moist woodlands and wetlands in North America. It can reach up to 40 cm in height, and has narrow, glossy green leaves. Stems are rough to the touch from fine hairs on the surfaces. This species flowers from May to June, producing small, green-brown clusters of flowers. In late summer, its small fruits form within the clusters, covered with dense hairs. This species is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, and can be propagated via division or seed. It’s good for stabilising banks and moist sites, and provides food and shelter for wildlife.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Rhizome Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

brown Fruits Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Hairy Fruited Sedge (Carex trichocarpa) should be watered moderately and consistently throughout the growing season. Water thoroughly once or twice a week for the first few months, and then gradually reduce the frequency to every 2 to 3 weeks. In periods of extreme heat or drought, watering may be necessary on a weekly basis. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot or other issues. During the fall and winter months, water only as needed to keep the soil barely moist.

sunlight

Hairy Fruited Sedge (Carex trichocarpa) prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate shade for short periods of time, but the plant will not flourish without at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day. During the spring and summer months, the plant should be given as much natural light as possible, with each day having around 8 hours of full, strong sunlight. During the winter months, however, the amount of sunlight the plant needs can be reduced to just 4 hours a day. This decrease in sunlight will give the plant time to rest and recover.

pruning

For optimal growth, the Hairy Fruited Sedge (Carex trichocarpa) should be pruned twice a year, once in the spring and then again in the fall. During the spring pruning, the plant should be cut back to 12-18 inches overall, removing any dead foliage, twigs and flower heads. This will help keep the plants vigorous and encourage new growth. During the fall pruning, it is best to cut back the plant to 9-12 inches, focusing on removing any dead or dying foliage, and cutting back some of the tallest stems. This will help reduce the risk of frost-damage, encourage more air circulation, and create denser, more attractive foliage.

Season

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

Harvesting of Carex trichocarpa typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Carex trichocarpa typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.