Species Williams' Sedge

Williams' Sedge

Carex williamsii

Williams' Sedge (Carex williamsii) is an evergreen perennial grass native to wet environments in the Pacific Northwest. With its lush green blades, it adds texture to the landscape and thrives in boggy or marshy areas. This sedge is an incredible habitat provider, as some species of butterfly larvae will only eat its leaves. It is tolerant of soggy soils and prefers partial shade, making it an ideal choice for naturalizing a wetland or bog in the garden. It’s a reliable performer, growing to a clump 1-2ft tall and spreading clumps 1-2ft wide. The tiny flowers appear in mid-Spring.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Williams' Sedge does best with regular, deep watering. During the growing season, water regularly to maintain evenly moist soil. For best results, water this plant deeply once or twice a week. During hot, dry weather, water more often, if necessary. Be sure to check the soil before watering to ensure it is not over-saturated. In the winter months, this plant does not need to be watered as often. Provide occasional deeper waterings and consider a light layer of mulch to help hold in moisture.

sunlight

Williams' Sedge typically prefers partial to full sunlight for optimal growth. In the morning, it thrives when exposed to direct sunlight that can last approximately 5-6 hours. In the afternoon, it is best to provide Williams' Sedge with some shade, as too much sunlight can lead to discoloration of the foliage. Many growers of this species are also successful in providing a more dappled light to the plant for 6-8 hours a day.

pruning

Williams' Sedge (Carex williamsii) should be pruned in early spring, just as the new growth is starting to appear. Pruning should consist of removing dead or damaged foliage, as well as thinning out overcrowding. This will help promote healthy, vigorous growth. Pruning should be done carefully as the plant is relatively delicate and could be damaged if pruned too severely.