Species Blue-Beech
green leaves on brown branches and trunk

Blue-Beech

Carpinus caroliniana subsp. virginiana

Also Known As - Blue Beech,Water Beech,Ironwood,Musclewood,Water Beech,Ironwood,Musclewood
Blue-Beech, or Carpinus caroliniana subsp. virginiana, is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States. It is part of the Betulaceae family, which also includes alders, birches, and hazel. This tree reaches a height of 30-60 feet with an oblong, broad crown. Its bark is light gray and smooth, with warty ridges and vertical grooves. Its young twigs and buds are a beautiful blue hue. Its leaves are deeply reversed and long, with a toothed margin, turning yellow in fall. C. caroliniana subsp. virginiana is a perfect choice for urban lanes and gardens due to its tolerance to drought and pollution. It also offers great habitat for pollinators and birds.

Watering:

Average

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

Sedge (Carex x xanthocarpa) requires moist soil but should not be overwatered. During the growing season, water the sedge once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Aim to apply enough water to soak the soil to a depth of 6”. During periods of extreme heat, water may need to be applied more frequently, or on consecutive days, to ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy. In winter, water should be reduced to every few weeks, or less often if the plants are dormant.

sunlight

For the plant species Sedge (Carex x xanthocarpa), optimal sunlight exposure is approximately 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Placement should be in full sun, but will thrive in partial sun as well. The time of day that sunlight is received does not matter, though early morning sun is ideal if possible. Sedge plants are not particularly fond of hot summer temperatures, so early morning sunlight is best to avoid peak heat, which can cause leaf burn or damage.

pruning

Sedge (Carex x xanthocarpa) should be pruned in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. Pruning encourages healthy growth and limits the size of the plant. It is recommended to cut the plant to within 2-3 inches of the soil line and, if necessary, remove any dead foliage. Pruning is particularly important if the grass begins to spread and takes up more than the desired space. Doing so maintains the desired size and shape of the grass. Remove any discolored or wilted foliage as necessary. This is a low-maintenance plant form and frequent pruning is not required.

Season

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

Starts Flowering

Harvest Fruit

Hardiness Map

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.