Species Inflated Sedge
lime spikelets with green leaves and stems

Inflated Sedge

Carex vesicaria

Also Known As - Blister Sedge
Inflated Sedge (Carex vesicaria) is a hardy, water-loving perennial grass native to Europe, Asia and the northern United States. It typically ens in shallow water or wet soil and has a spreading habit up to 20-30 cm in diameter. Its linear leaves are typically dull green or grayish-green in color, and it has distinctive, inflated seed or bracts which are inflated and tinged with purple. Inflated Sedge provides great wildlife cover and can be an excellent addition to wetland gardens. It's also tolerant of salt and drought, making it an ideal choice for coastal or dry areas.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Inflated Sedge responds best when it receives a moderate amount of water. During the summer months, water it once a week, supplying 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 4 cm) of water. It is important to deep-soak the area during each watering. During the winter months, water it every other week, supplying the same amount of water as during the summer. This is especially important if the temperatures are warm and the soil is dry. It is not necessary to water if there is rain.

sunlight

Inflated Sedge (Carex vesicaria) does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers 6 to 8 hours of full sun each day to retain its upright growing habit and dense foliage. While it can grow in nearly full shade, it will struggle to keep its rich color and will appear more yellow-green than its true olive-green. It is also important to note that this species does like to be kept moist, so providing it with a few hours of dappled shade throughout the day can help with moisture retention, while still providing enough light for proper growth.

pruning

Inflated Sedge (Carex vesicaria) can be pruned as needed in order to maintain the desired shape and size. Prune any dying or dead leaves and stems. Prune any parts of the plant that appear to be diseased. After the flowering period – which typically takes place from the end of spring to early summer – you can prune the inflorescence (flowering portion of the plant) in order to encourage further flowering. In the spring and fall, it can be beneficial to prune the plant back to encourage new growth and keep the plant looking healthy and tidy. Pruning should be done with sharp, sterilized pruning shears or scissors, and all pruned material should be disposed off properly.

Season

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

Inflated Sedge typically starts flowering in May.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Carex vesicaria typically begins in June and continues through August.