Ornamental Sedges can be used alot more in landscaping than they currently are. Some can even be used to replace lawns in the shade. The Sedges listed below are NOT invasive. Deer do not like Sedges but I know you will. Sedges are rarely prone to insect pests or disease.
* photo taken on annual Horticultural Society of Maryland Garden Tour
* photo taken on October 17 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on June 4 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 18 2016 @ Patuxent Research Refuge, Laurel, MD
Carex albicans ( Oak Sedge )
A rhizomatous clumping grass forming a clump up to 20 inches tall, that is native to eastern North America ( from eastern Nebraska to southeast Minnesota to central Wisconsin to central Michigan to southeast Quebec to Nova Scotia; south to eastern Texas to far northern Florida ). It is endangered in Minnesota, Iowa and Ontario. It occurred sporadically on the Lake Erie islands and possibly elsewhere in the Windsor/Essex County, Ontario region during the 1800s. It is found on dry rocky or sandy, upland forests though sometimes also on sandy river bottoms.
The narrow, arching leaf blades are up to 16 x 0.1 inches in size. The foliage is bright green.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in partial to full shade on well drained soil. It is very drought tolerant.
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photo taken on Oct 21 2014 @ U.S. Botanical Gardens, Washington, DC
* photo taken on Aug 1 2022 in Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Carex albursina ( White Bear Sedge )
A semi-evergreen, clumping grass, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet in size, that is native to rich deciduous and mixed forest of eastern North America ( from central Minnesota to northern Michigan to Tobermory, Ontario to southeast Quebec & New Hampshire; south to eastern Oklahoma to northern Alabama to central Virginia ). It is endangered in Nebraska, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. It was abundant on the Lake Erie islands and probably occurred elsewhere in the Windsor/Essex County, Ontario region during the 1800s.
The oblanceolate leaves are up to 10 x 1.6 inches in size. The foliage is bright green.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in partial shade on moderately dry to moist, light, fertile, well drained soil.
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
Carex amphibola ( Creek Sedge )
A vigorous, clumping perennial grass, reaching up to 1.4 x 2.6 ( rarely over 1 x 1.5 ) feet, that is native to deciduous floodplain forests in eastern North America ( from central Oklahoma to southwest Iowa to northern Illinois to southern Michigan to Grand Bend, Ontario to Quebec & New Hampshire; south to eastern Texas to Georgia ). It is endangered in Texas, Iowa, Ontario and New York.
The semi-evergreen ( to -5 F ) leaves, up to 12 x 0.1 inches in size, are glossy mid-green.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on moist to wet, well drained to wet soil.
* photos taken on June 18 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 10 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Aug 1 2022 in Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Carex appalachica ( Appalatian Sedge )
A low groundcover similar to Carex pennsylvanica, that reaches up to 1 x 1.5 feet, that is native to dry mountain forests of eastern North America ( from Quebec to northern Maine; south to central Alabama to western South Carolina ). It is also found further west on the Bruce Peninsula in Ontario where it is extremely rare. It is endangered in Ontario, Kentucky, West Virginia, Maryland, Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina. It is native to dry woodland slopes, especially on rocky soil. Excellent groundcover for dry shade and often grows under Hemlocks in the wild.
It has very fine, weeping, narrow hair-like foliage. The leaves are up to 18 inches long.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in partial to full shade on well drained soil.
* photo taken on Aug 3 2011 in Luzerne Co, PA
* photos taken on Sep 14 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 11 2014 in Washington, DC
* photo taken on Apr 17 2016 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on July 28 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 16 2024 in Bayfield, ON
Carex aquatalis ( Water Sedge )
A long lived, rhizomatous perennial grass, reaching a maximum height of 5 feet, that is a widespread native of Alaska, Canada and the northern U.S. ( south to CA, AZ, NM to KS to IN to VA ). It is critically endangered in WV, VA, MD & NJ. Endangered in AZ, NE, KS, PA & VT. Threatened in Iowa and Ohio. It is often found in bogs and can even be cultivated to replenish harvested peat bogs.
* photos taken on July 16 2018 @ Wye Marsh, Midland, ON
Carex bergerenii
Forming a loose tufty clump up to 2 feet x 9 inches in size. The blunt, blue-green to metallic gray ( reddish-brown in autumn and winter ) leaf blades are up to 2 feet in length. Looks great in the oriental theme landscape.
The flower spikes are small and brown.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in sun or partial shade on moist soil.
Carex blanda ( Eastern Woodland Sedge )
Forms a fast growing, evergreen clump, up to 1 x 2 feet. It is very adaptive, growing in sun or shade and on well drained or wet soils. It is native to eastern North America ( from Manitoba to Quebec; south to northeast Wyoming to central Texas to northwest Florida to central South Carolina ).
Hardy zones 3 to 9
Carex bromoides ( Sweeping Sedge )
Forms an evergreen clump, up to 1.3 x 2.7 feet in size. It is native to wet woodland and swampland in eastern North America ( from central Minnesota to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to Quebec to Nova Scotia; south to northern Louisiana to central Florida ).
The fine textured foliage is glossy deep green. The fine-textured leaves are up to 9 x 0.1 inches in size.
Hardy zones 4a to 8 in sun or shade on fertile, moist to permanently wet soil.
Carex buchananii ( Leatherleaf Sedge )
Forms a moderate growing, tufted, erect to arching clump, up to 3 x 3 feet, with pendulous, narrow, red-bronze, very narrow, hair-like leaf blades, up to 3 feet in length.
Looks great next to water or with conifers.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 in partial to full shade on cool, moist, fertile soil.
It may be grown as far north as Michigan on a protected site.
Plants can be kept neat looking by occasionally combing out old foliage and debris.
Divide during spring.
'Bronze Mound'
Foliage is bronze-brown.
* photo taken on Aug 1 2013 in Stratford, Ontario
* photo taken on Oct 17 2013 in Howard Co., MD
* photo taken on July 11 2014 in Washington, DC
* photos taken on Oct 21 2014 @ Smithsonian Inst., Washington, DC
'Frosty Curls'
Lower growing, only reaching a foot in height, with whitish foliage that is sometimes curled at the tips.
'Red Rooster'
Forms a dense upright clump up to 2 x 3 feet, with bronze foliage.
* photo taken on Apr 20 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on May 21 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 1 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 5 2024 in Columbia, MD
Carex caryophylla ( Vernal Sedge )
A moderate growing, perennial Sedge, reaching up to 1 foot in height, that is native to northeastern North America ( New York State to New Brunswick; south to Maryland ). It is also native to northern Europe and parts of western Asia. It looks great used along walkways, as groundcover and in containers.
The finely textured, narrow leaves are up to 10 inches in length. The foliage is evergreen in mild climates.
It prefers partial shade on moist, humus-rich, well drained soil. It is tolerant of wet soils.
'Beatlemania'
Forms a clump up to 10 inches x 2 feet, with narrow green leaves that are edged in golden-yellow. It is very attractive and makes a great substitute for Variegated Liriope in the north.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( tolerating -20 F ).
'The Beatles'
A miniature Sedge grass forming a domed clump, up to 8 inches x 1.5 feet, of solid deep green, thin textured, very narrow foliage.
Looks great used in the same way as Dwarf Mondo Grass, whether with bulbs, between paving stones or along deeply shaded walkways.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 prefering moist fertile soil in partial to full shade. It may be much hardier than listed, having been known to survive winters in Saskatchewan
Carex cherokeensis ( Cherokee Sedge )
A fast growing, clumping, evergreen perennial, reaching up to 2 x 4 foot, that is native to eastern North America ( from Oklahoma and Missouri to Virginia; and south ). It is endangered in the wild. It makes a very attractive groundcover that spreads by underground rhizomes.
The very narrow leaves, up to 0.2 inches wide, are rich glossy deep green.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 ( possibly 5 ) in partial to full shade preferring moist, well drained soil though it is moderately drought tolerant. It can tolerates temporary inundations such as are found on floodplains. The Cherokee Sedge is also very heat tolerant. Cut back to near groundlevel during late winter.
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
'Crying Time'
A spectacular form, introduced by Plant Delights Nursery in North Carolina, that forms a clump up to 2.5 x 4.5 feet.
The foliage is mid-green
There are often hundred of stalks, producing weeping white flowerheads during early summer.
Hardy zones 6a to 9
Carex comans ( New Zealand Hair Sedge )
Forms an evergreen clump up to 3 x 6 feet with soft fine textured leaf blades that are silvery-green fading to near white towards the tips. The very narrow, arching, hairlike, evergreen leaf-blades are up to 2 feet in length.
Great in the landscape or patio planters / containers. Looks great in the rock garden and trailing over stone walls.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Drought tolerant.
* photo taken on July 30 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 29 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Amazon Mist'
Forms a clump, up to 1.5 x 3.3 feet, with very narrow, fine-textured foliage.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
* photo taken on July 5 2014 in Elkridge, MD
* photo taken @ Smithsonian Inst, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photo taken on Sep 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Apr 2019 in Elkridge, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 27 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 26 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 28 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Bronze'
Bronze color foliage.
* photo taken on Jul 17 2017 in Gatineau, Quebec
* photos taken during Sep 2018 in Columbia, MD
'Frosted Curls'
Reaches up to 2 x 3 feet, with thin, silvery-green leaves that are ruffled at the tip.
* photo taken by Milan Havlis ( havlis.cz )
* photos taken on July 5 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on May 9 2024 in Elkridge, MD
Carex conica 'Marginata'
Also called 'Snowline'. Forms a slow growing, dense, mounded clump up to 1 x 1.5 feet. The species is native to Korea and Japan.
The white leaves, up to 0.2 inches wide, have a thin deep green center band. The foliage on species Carex conica is just a solid glossy deep green.
The creamy-white flower tassels appear early to mid spring.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in partial to full shade on moist, fertile, well drained soil. Tolerates sun only if soil is consistantly moist. Propagate by dividing during early spring.
* photo taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
Carex crinata ( Fringed Sedge )
A very attractive, dense, evergreen, lightly-rhizomatous clumping grass, reaching up to 4 x 5.1 feet, that is native to much of eastern North America ( from Manitoba to Quebec to Nova Scotia; south to central Texas to southern Alabama to central South Carolina ). It is found in bottomland forests and edges of ponds and marshes.
The bright green culms bear leaves, up to 13 x 0.6 inches in size, that range from bright or mid-green to blue-green.
The abundant, hanging seed heads appear during early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on moist to wet soil. It is clay and flood tolerant.
Carex dipsacea ( Autumn Sedge )
Forms a clump, up to 32 inches x 2 feet, with green-bronze foliage that turns orange-red during autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9
Carex divulsa ( Grassland Sedge )
A perennial grass, forming an evergreen clump, up to 15 inches x 2.5 feet, that is native to Europe. It has also naturalized locally in parts of northeastern North America. The narrow leaf blades, up to 0.1 inch wide, are luxuriant mid-green foliage.
Hardy zones 4a to 9. Very tolerant of heat and humidity.
Carex divulsa ( Grassland Sedge )
An evergreen, perennial, forming a clump up to 1.3 x 2.5 feet, that is native to Eurasia but locally naturalized in eastern North America ( from Ontario, south to Kentucky to Maryland ). It makes a great groundcover.
The fine-textured foliage is mid-green.
The tiny flowers appear during mid-spring.
Hardy zones 4a to 10 in sun or partial shade on most well drained soils. It is heat and humidity tolerant. It also tolerates tree roots rather well.
Carex dolichostachya var. glaberrima
The speces C. dolichostachya is a perennial clumping grass that is native to central & southern China, Taiwan, Japan and the Phillipines. It is usually found on forested hillsides in the wild.
The leathery leaves are up to 12 x 0.3 inches in size.
* photo taken on Oct 17 2013 in Olney, MD
Carex dolichostachya 'Kaga Nishiki' ( Gold Fountain Sedge )
Forms a moderate growing, long-lived, handsome, semi-evergreen to evergreen clump, reaching up to 2 x 3.3 ( rarely over 1 x 2 ) feet.
The cascading, narrow foliage, up to 0.25 inches wide, is deep green, variegated with golden-yellow margins.
Hardy zones 5 to 9, in partial shade to full shade and drought.
* photo taken on Oct 17 2013 in Olney, MD
* photo taken @ Smithsonian Inst, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photos taken @ Smithsonian Inst, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photos taken on June 14 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 5 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 11 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 15 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 1 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 11 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 28 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 18 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 26 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 28 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 21 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 16 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD
Carex eburnea ( Bristle-Leaf Sedge )
A widespread but rare native in the Alaska, Canada and the northern U.S., that forms a clump up to 9 x 20 ( rarely over 6 x 8 ) inches. This Sedge looks similar in habit to Festuca glauca ( Blue Fescue ). It is extinct in SC. Critically endangered in WA, WY, TX, AL, GA, SC, MD, PA, NH & ME. Endangered in IN & NJ. Threatened in SK, MT, IN, WV, CT, NB & NS. It is often found on dry limestone soils in the wild.
The very narrow, soft, fine-textured foliage is luxuriant mid-green.
hardy zones 2a to 8. Very soil tolerant. It is tolerant of mowing and has potential as a lawn substitute if not cut too short.
Carex elata ( Tussock Sedge )
Also called Carex stricta. It is a moderate growing, widespread Europeam native, reaching up to 4 x 5 feet with luxuriant bright green, sword-shaped, evergreen leaf blades and star-shaped flowers.
Hardy zones 2 to 9 in full sun or partial shade. It loves fertile, moist to wet soil tolerant making it an excellent wetland plant.
* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Aug 1 2022 in Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
'Aurea'
Foliage is glowing bright green with a yellow margin.
'Bowles Golden' ( Gold Sedge )
Reaches up to 4 x 4 feet with evergreen leaf blades that are bright golden-yellow with a narrow mid-green leaf margin. The foliage often fades to yellowish-green in the center by mid summer. Looks great when massed of used at waters edge.
Requires moist soil.
* photo taken on Sep 21 2013 in Howard Co., MD
* photos taken on May 3 2014 in Baltimore Co., MD
* photo taken on Mar 3 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Mar 5 2024 in Ellicott City, MD
Carex 'Feather Falls'
Fast growing, forming a clump up to 1 x 2.7 feet in 3 years, eventually to 1.5 x 4 feet.
The finely-textured foliage is deep green with a creamy-white border. The leaves are up to 30 x 0.5 inches in size. The similar and newer Carex 'Ribbon Falls' has glossy deep green foliage with a deep yellow border. It is fast growing but smaller, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet.
Hardy zones 5 to 9
Carex flaccosperma ( Blue Wood Sedge )
A moderate growing, slowly rhizomatous, strong-clumping, semi-evergreen groundcover perennial, reaching up to 1.3 x 2.6 feet, that is native to rich woods and bottomland forests in North America ( from eastern Kansas to central Illinois to Maryland; south to eastern Texas to far northwest Florida to South Carolina ). It is endangered in Kansas, Missouri and Georgia. This amazingly tough and versitile plant is a great substitute for the overabundant Liriope.
The quilted leaves, up to 0.5 inches across, are bright blue in color. Hardy zones 4 to 8 in partial shade to full shade on just about any soil. Moderately drought tolerant as well as thriving on wet sites. It is drought tolerant once established. Cut back to 3 inches in height during early spring before new growth begins. Deer resistant.
* photo taken on June 1 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photo taken on May 8 2015 in Columbia, MD
Carex flagellifera ( Weeping Brown New Zealand Sedge )
A moderate growing perennial reaching up to 3 x 2 ( rarely over 2 ) feet with orange to brown, arching, fine-textured, hair-like foliage.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 on protected site ) in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
'Toffee Twist'
* photos taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
Carex fraseri ( Frasers Sedge )
A beautiful, slow growing, long-lived, evergreen clump forming grass reaching up to 2 x 2 feet, that is native to moist woodlands in the southeastern U.S. ( from Pennsylvania, south to Tennessee & Georgia ), where it is endangered.
The broad, leathery, strap-shaped leaf blades, up to 24 x 2 inches, are glossy deep black-green.
The greenish-white flower, up to 0.5 inches across, is borne on a single stalk up to 6 inches in height. Two or more plants are required for pollination and the production of seed.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in partial to full shade on moist, fertile soil.
* photo taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
Carex glauca ( Blue Sedge )
Also called Carex flacca. A moderate growing, clumping perennial, reaching up to 2 x 2.3 feet, that is native to much of Europe. It is found in wet forest edges and marshland in the wild.
The leaf blades, up to 14 x 0.1 inches in size, are blue-green to powdery-blue.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in sun or shade, it prefers fertile, moist to wet soil but can tolerate temporary drought. Blue Sedge can also be grown in water as deep as 2 inches. It is NOT eaten by deer. It performs much better in the Mid Atlantic region than does Blue Fescue which thins out in our hot humid summers. Carex glauca should always be cut back hard or mowed in early spring to make room for fresh new growth.
* photos taken on October 9 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 12 2011 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 25 2011 @ Scott Arboretum, Swarthmore, PA
* photos taken on Sep 3 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
'Barton's Blue'
Wider and even more blue foliage.
* photos taken on June 3 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 16 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 10 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 7 2020 in Columbia, MD
* at night
'Blue Zinger'
Reaches up to 20 inches with attractive mounding blue-gray foliage.
It is more clumping than regular Blue Sedge, only reaching an average 2 feet in width in 5 years.
* photo taken on Aug 1 2013 in Stratford, Ontario ( color in photo washed out by reflected sun )
* photo taken on on July 18 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 1 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 30 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 12 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 2 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 31 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 13 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 9 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 5 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 21 2017 in Catonsville, MD
* photos taken on Oct 30 2018 in Annapolis, MD
* photos taken on June 8 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 14 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2020 in Columbia, MD
Carex glaucescens ( Southern Waxy Sedge )
An evergreen perennial, clumping grass, reaching a maximum height of 5 ( rarely over 4 ) feet, that is native to sandy bogs, wet pinelands, swamps and riverbanks in the southeastern U.S. ( from southeast Oklahoma to central Tennessee to southeast Maryland; south to eastern Texas to northern Florida ).
The leaf blades, up to 30 x 0.3 inches in size, are blue-green.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 ( est ) in partial shade on sandy, moist to wet soil.
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
Carex grayi ( Morning Star Sedge )
A deciduous to semi-evergreen, clumping perennial grass, reaching up to 4 x 4.2 feet in size, that is native to moist to wet deciduous forests in eastern North America ( from central Minnesota to Michigan's Upper Peninsula to Saginaw, Michigan to southeast Quebec & Vermont; south to eastern Oklahoma to central Alabama to central South Carolina ). It occurred sporadically on the Ohio shore during the 1800s. The leathery, narrow leaf blades, up to 40 x 0.5 inches, are bright to mid-green.
The star-shaped flower heads borne during summer, are up to 1 inch across. They are green ripening to brown.
It is an excellent plant for use next to water.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in partial to full shade on moist fertile soil. Moderately drought tolerant. Easily propagated from seed.
Carex haydenii ( Hayden's Sedge )
A very attractive, deciduous, perennial, clumping grass, reaching up to 3 x 5.1 feet, that is native to wet meadows, marshes and riverbanks in eastern North America ( from central North Dakota to far northern Minnesota to central Michigan to Ontario to Quebec to Nova Scotia; south to southwestern South Dakota to central Missouri to central Indiana to western Maryland to central New Jersey. it is endangered in North Dakota, West Virgnia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and New Hampshire. It is extinct in Michigan.
The foliage is blue-green.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in sun or shade on moist soil. It is tolerant of temporary flooding.
Carex howei ( Prickly Bog Sedge )
Also called Carex atlantica ssp. capillacea. A clumping grass, up to 1 x 2 feet, that is native to swampy riverbanks in eastern North America ( from southern Missouri to central Indiana to southern Ontario to Quebec to Nova Scotia; south to northern Louisiana to southern Alabama to central Georgia. It is critically endangered in Ontario, Quebec, Vermont, Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee. It is threatened in Arkansa, Georgia, North Carolina and New York State. In coastal northern New England, it is widespread and abundant.
Hardy zones 4 to 9
'Willow the Wisp'
A very attractive form, making a clump up to 1.5 x 3 feet. It is an introduction from Plant Delights Nursery in North Carolina.
The very fine-textured, arching foliage is luxuriant mid-green.
Hardy zones 5a to 9
Carex laxiculmis ( Spreading Sedge )
An evergreen groundcover perennial, reaching up to 1 x 1.5 feet, forming an attractive tuft of deep green leaf blades, up to 14 x 0.6 inches. It is native to rich woods in eastern North America ( from Minnesota to central Michigan to Quebec & Maine; south to Arkansas to northern Alabama to central North Carolina ). It occurred sporadically on the Ohio shore during the 1800s.
Hardy zones 4b to 10 in partial to full shade on moist to wet soil. Cut to ground near ground during very early spring to clean out old tired foliage, this is also a good time to divide the clumps.
* photos taken on Oct 19 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 28 2015 @ Hickory Run State Park, PA
* photos taken on Apr 17 2016 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on Sep 15 2022 in Columbia, MD
'Bunny Blue'
Also called 'Hobb'. Similar, except with metallic silvery-blue leaf blades. It makes an excellent plant for the rock garden.
* photos taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on Aug 25 2013 @ University of Maryland, College Park
* photo taken on Oct 19 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 1 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 28 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photo taken on Oct 17 2014 in Baltimore Co., MD
* photos taken on Oct 2 2016 in Bel Air, MD
* photos taken on Apr 21 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 7 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 27 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Sep 5 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 14 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 28 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Dec 4 2021 in Columbia, MD
Carex leavenworthii ( Leavenworth Sedge )
Also called Carex cephalophora var. angustifolia . Forms an evergreen clump reaching up to 1 x 2 feet, that is native to dry sandy open oak forests in the eastern U.S. ( from Nebraska to Wisconsin to Ontario to New York State; south to Texas to Florida ). It can be used to create a low traffic woodland lawn and can even be mowed to 4 inches during mid-spring as the seed spikes mature and again during late summer.
The very narrow foliage is deep green. The leaves are up to 12 x 0.12 inches in size.
Sprays of green flowers are produced during mid-spring. The seeds are eaten by squirrels and some birds.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in partial to full shade ( tolerates full sun though foliage may be more yellowish during summer ) on just about any well drained soil though it can tolerate temporary flooding on floodplain sites. It is great for landscape plantings due to its heat and drought tolerance.
* photos taken on Sep 10 2023 @ Smithsonian Institute, Wash., DC
Carex montana ( Mountain Sedge )
A clumping perennial grass, reaching up to 10 x 12 inches, that is native to most of Europe and much of Russia. It makes a great groundcover.
The grassy foliage is luxuriant bright to mid green.
The brown flower tassels appear early to mid spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in partial shade on well drained soil.
Carex morrowii ( Japanese Sedge )
A fast growing, Japanese native forming an evergreen turfed clump ( reaching maximum size of 32 x 44 inches ). It makes a good groundcover for the woodland understory.
The long, narrow, arching, sword-shaped leaves, up to 32 x 0.4 inches in size, are glossy mid-green.
The bright yellow-green flower tassels appear early to mid spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in partial to full shade on moist, fertile, well drained soil. Somewhat drought tolerant. Cut back during early spring.
* photo taken on July 7 2020 in Columbia, MD
'Aureovariegata'
Foliage is bright whitish-yellow with a narrow deep green margin. Great for using with Blue Hosta's and Burgundy Heuchera to brighten up a dark shady gardens.
'Fisher's Form'
Reaches up to 2 x 4 feet, with deep green leaves that are edged in white.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in partial shade.
* photos taken on Aug 8 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 26 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 26 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 28 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 7 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Dec 30 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 16 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 5 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 20 2022 in Columbia, MD
'Goldband'
Foliage is deep green and boldly margined creamy-yellow later fading to white; otherwise similar to species. Great for the rock garden.
* photo taken on Aug 21 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 30 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 25 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 11 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 30 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 5 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 3 2022 in Columbia, MD
'Ice Ballet'
Similar to 'Ice Dance' except with foliage having bolder, brighter white variegation. The leaves average 15 x 0.3 inches in size. It is fast growing, forming a clump up to 1.3 x 2.3 feet in 2 years, eventually wider.
* photo taken on Mar 18 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
'Ice Dance'
Very vigorous, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 x 4 feet, spreading to create an excellent low maintenance groundcover for shady sites.
The narrow, grassy, semi-evergreen foliage is glossy deep green and edged in pure white.
The leaf blades are wider than most other Carex morrowii cultivars.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in sun or shade. Drought tolerant once established.
Extremely tough, it even does well with dense tree root competition.
* photo taken on Aug 4 2012 in Bayfield, Ontario
* photos taken on Mar 8 2013 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken on Oct 22 2013 in Towson, MD
* photo taken on Aug 3 2014 @ National Zoo, Washington, DC
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photo taken on Nov 19 2016 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD
* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Oct 30 2018 in Annapolis, MD
* photo taken on July 13 2021 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey PA
* photo taken on June 2 2021 in Annapolis, MD
'Silver Sceptre'
Also called Carex stricta 'Variegata'; is a beautiful rhizomatous-spreading clump forming plant with narrow, arching, evergreen leaves, up to 0.25 inches in width, with a bright white margin.
Though typically smaller, on ideal sites, a clump can reach up to 1.5 x 3.3 feet in size, spreading slowly by rhizomes. The plant appears silvery from a distance and is excellent for brightening up a dark corner.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in partial to full shade on moist, fertile, well drained soil. Long lived and easy to grow.
* photo taken on June 17 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on on July 18 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 24 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 17 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
'Temnoleptis' ( Silk Tassle Sedge )
Fine-textured narrow leaves, otherwise similar to regular Carex morrowii. It forms a silky clump, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet. It is among the most beautiful of all Sedges when used in mass plantings.
The very narrow, deep green leaves are margined in white.
Hardy zones 5 to 9
* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken @ Smithsonian Inst, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photos taken on May 21 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 10 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 7 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 9 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photoS taken on June 16 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 20 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 3 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 12 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 24 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 4 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 16 2024 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 9 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Variegata'
A rhizomatous moderate spreading, forming a deciduous to evergreen ( depending on climate ) clump up to 2 x 3 feet.
The broad sword-shaped leaves, up to 18 x 1 inches, are deep green with a bold broad creamy-white margin. The luxuriant bright green spring foliage is tinged with pink. It is very stable, rarely reverting.
Hardy zones 4 to 9, preferring partial shade on moist, fertile soil. Tolerant of full sun.
* photo taken on Feb 2009 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
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* photo taken on May 8 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on October 17 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Mar 18 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Carex muskingumensis ( Palm Sedge )
Forms a moderate growing, graceful, dense, rhizomatous, tropical appearing foliage clump reaching a maximum size of 3.5 x 5 ( usually under 2.5 ) feet, with attractive, luxuriant glossy bright green foliage that resembles Palm fronds. The foliage turns yellow during mid to late autumn after the first frost ( evergreen in very mild climates ). Palm Sedge looks great combined with the coarse foliage of Liqularia, Rodgersia and Hostas. It can even be used in containers on shaded patios as long as it is kept wet.
Palm Sedge is a native to moist woods in the North American Great Lakes ( from central Minnesota to central Wisconsin to central Michigan to southern Ontario; south to eastern Kansas to northeast Arkansas to central Ohio ) that looks great planted next to water due to its Papyrus-like appearance and can even be used for erosion control on river banks. It is endangered in Ontario, Kansas, Arkansas and Tennessee. in the Windsor/Essex County, Ontario region; it occurred sporadically in Lasalle but was locally common on the Ohio shore. It was abundant at Detroit, Michigan during the presettlement era. It is native to flood plains and wooded swamps.
The flower stalks reach up to 44 inches in height.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in fertile, moist to wet soil in sun or shade. Palm Sedge can even be grown in shallow water up to 4 inches in depth.
* photo taken on Apr 23 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Aug 8 2017 in Clarksville, MD
* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on July 1 2018 in Clarksville, MD
* photos taken on Aug 11 2018 in Washington, D.C.
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 5 2019 in Clarksville, MD
* photo taken on July 7 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 23 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Aug 3 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 18 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 15 2022 in Clarksville, MD
* photos taken on Aug 2 2023 in Clarksville, MD
'Ice Fountain's' ( Variegated Palm Branch Sedge )
Reaches up to 2.5 feet with green foliage that has variegation that is white at first then fading to bright green by the middle of summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil.
'Little Midge'
Similar to species but dwarf, reaching up to 1.1 x 1.2 feet.
'Oehme'
Reaches up to 3 x 3.7 ( rarely over 2 ) feet in size, with foliage that is green and variegated with a yellow border.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
* photos taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on June 7 2019 @ Univ. of Maryland, College Park
* photo taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 10 2020 in Columbia, MD
* new installed planting
* photos taken on July 7 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 23 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 2 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 18 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 9 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Sentry'
Attractive weeping foliage.
'Wachtposten'
Upright in habit, reaching up to 3 feet in height.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 and drought tolerant.
Carex nigra ( Black Blooming Sedge Grass )
A perennial clumper, reaching up to 1.5 feet, that is native to marshes and bogs along the east coast of the U.S. Looks great in the rock garden.
The foliage is blue-green.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
Carex ornithopoda 'Variegata' ( Variegated Bird's-Foot Sedge )
A miniature Sedge, forming an evergreeen clump, only reaching up to 6 inches x 1 foot.
The green foliage is striped vertically with creamy-white.
Hardy zone 4 to 9 preferring light shade in moist, fertile, light soil.
Carex oshimensis ( Oshima Sedge )
An evergreen, clumping perennial grass, reaching up to 1.5 x 3 feet, that is native to Honshu Island of Japan. It slowly spreads by short rhizomes.
The narrow linear leaves are up to 16 x 0.25 inches in size. The foliage is glossy mid to deep green.
The flower tassels are white.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in partial shade ( also full sun in cooler climates ) on moist, well drained soil.
* photo taken on June 20 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 10 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 5 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 14 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Dec 20 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 20 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 2 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 18 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 12 2022 in Columbia, MD
'Everest'
Forms a moderate growing, dense clump, up to 20 inches x 2 feet, with foliage that is boldly margined white.
Hardy zones 5 to 9, in sun or partial shade.
* photos taken @ Smithsonian Inst, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photos taken on Oct 21 2014 @ Smithsonian Inst., Washington, DC
* photo taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
* photos taken on May 15 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 5 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 13 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 11 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 10 2023 @ Smithsonian Institute, Wash., DC
* photo taken on Sep 21 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 3 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Everglow'
Forms a momderate growing clump up to 1.5 x 2 feet in size.
The bright green foliage is longitudinally striped yellow. The leaves are up to 12 inches in length.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in partial shade.
'Evergold'
Forms a moderate growing, evergreen clump reaching a maximum size of 2 x 3.5 feet, though typically not exceeding 1.5 feet in height.
The very showy foliage is typically bright yellow with a narrow green center stripe.
The fine-textured leaves, are up to 15 x 0.15 inches.
Looks great in planters. Is also an excellent plant for mixing with Crocus's.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 on moist shady sites.
* photos taken on June 19 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 30 2011 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 25 2013 @ University of Maryland, College Park
* photos taken on Aug 29 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 22 2013 in Towson, MD
* photos taken on Aug 10 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 5 2016 in Elkridge, MD
* photos taken on June 9 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 25 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 26 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Jan 15 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 1 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 3 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Dec 31 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 22 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Everillo'
Forms a clump of arching, evergreen foliage, reaching up to 1.7 x 3 feet in size.
The foliage is bright golden-yellow.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in partial shade.
* photos taken on May 30 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 8 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 28 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 25 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 8 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 25 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Oct 15 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 28 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Feb 9 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 10 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 8 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 28 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 14 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Nov 17 2020 in Catonsville, MD
* photos taken on Nov 23 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 24 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 4 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Feb 21 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Aug 17 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 26 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Mar 5 2024 in Ellicott City, MD
'Everlime'
Forms a vigorous clump up to 1.3 x 2 feet in size.
The foliage is bright green and variegated with a bold golden-yellow border. The leaves are up to 11 x 0.3 inches in size.
Hardy zones 5 to 8
'Eversheen'
Forms a moderate growing, evergreen clump, up to 1.5 x 2.5 feet in size.
The glossy leaves are intense golden-yellow with a bold deep green border. The leaves are up to 16 x 0.3 inches in size.
Hardy zones 5 to 8
* photo taken on Sep 26 2019 in Elkridge, MD
'Feather Falls'
Forms a vigorous growing, arching, dense clump, reaching up to 1.2 x 2.7 feet in 3 years, eventually to 2 x 5 feet.
The foliage is glossy deep green with bold white margins. The leaves are up to 30 x 0.5 inches in size.
Hardy zones 5b to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
* photo taken on Oct 30 2023 in Howard Co., MD
* photo taken on Sep 4 2024 in Burtonsville, MD
* patent photo
'Ribbon Falls'
Forms an attractive, vigorous, dense clump up to 0.9 x 2 feet in 2 years, eventually up to 1.5 x 2.2 feet. It makes a great substiture for green leaved Liriope muscari.
The attractive foliage is glossy deep green. The foliage is evergreen in mild climates. The leaves are up to 16 x 0.5 inches in size.
Hardy zones 6 to 9
* photos taken on June 2 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 6 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 25 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Gold Strike'
Forms a dense clump, up to 20 inches x 2 feet, with golden variegated foliage.
Hardy zones 5 to 9, in sun or partial shade. .
Carex pansa ( California Meadow Sedge )
Also called Dune Sedge. An excellent, moderate growing, evergreen turfgrass substitute, reaching just 4 inches x 1.5 feet ( unmowed height ) and spreading but not aggressively by rhizomes. It is native to western North America ( from British Columbia to California ). It can be mowed however is rarely needed though mowing 2 or 3 times yearly does tend to make it grow thicker and neater. This deep-rooted, turf-like plant, thriving especially well in coastal parts of central California; makes an excellent base plant for a natural meadow. While it may eventually spread to 3 feet across from a single plug, it should be planted much closer together when used as groundcover.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 in full sun to partial shade on sand to very well drained soil. While it may go dormant during summer drought, it doesn't take any more than 2 or 3 deep waterings per month to keep it lush and deep green.
* interesting link on Carex pansa http://www.baynatives.com/plants/Carex-pansa/
http://drystonegarden.com/index.php/2011/10/carex-pansa/
Carex pendula ( Drooping Sedge )
Forms a slow growing, long-lived, arching clump reaching a maximum size of 4 x 6.5 feet, with broad, semi-evergreen ( evergreen in mild climates ) deep green foliage. A very graceful plant that looks great next to the waters edge. It is native to most of Europe south of the boreal forest region.
The unique, long arching flower spikes reach up to 7.6 ( rarely over 5 ) feet in height.
The interesting drooping seed heads can be used in flower arrangements.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 preferring partial to full shade on moist, fertile soil. Cut back during early spring before new growth begins.
* photos taken on Mar 8 2013 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photos taken on Mar 18 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Carex pennsylvanica ( Pennsylvania Sedge )
Also called Oak Sedge. Forms a fast-spreading clump up to 1.4 x 5 feet in 4 years and can be used in mass plantings for groundcover where it will form dense mats on the shady sites that it prefers. It can spread up to 8 inches yearly on ideal sites
It is native to moist woods, oak savanna and dry pine woods of eastern North America ( from from western North Dakota to southern Manitoba to Kenora, Ontario to Michigan's Upper Peninsula to Sauble Beach, Ontario to Haliburton, Ontario to southern Quebec to Nova Scotia; south to Arkansas to northern Mississippi to northern Georgia ) and is of high wildlife value. It is endangered in Arkansas and Maine. In the Windsor/Essex County, Ontario region; it was noted as being very common at Point Pelee, the Lake Erie Islands and the Ohio shoreline but not occurring elsewhere. It was also abundant at Detroit, Michigan during that time.
The fine-textured, narrow ( up to 12 x 0.15 inches ), semi-evergreen foliage is glossy bright green later turning to deep green. Durign cold winter weather, the foliage may turn to tan-brown.
Pennsylvania Sedge is among the first Sedges to bloom during spring, bearing whitish plumes. Hardy zones 3 to 8 prefering acidic soils and shade ( even tolerating dense shade under Oaks ). It can be mowed to as low as 2.5 inches 1 to 3 times a year and makes an excellent lawn substitute in the shade. Plant 1 foot apart to create a "woodland lawn". Keep moist during the first season, they become very tough and drought tolerant after that ( however still looks best with a weekly or biweekly deep watering ). Clumps can be divided during early spring.
* photo of unknown internet source
* photos taken on Oct 17 2013 in Olney, MD
* photos taken on Oct 19 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on May 1 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 1 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 11 2014 in Washington, DC
* photo taken on July 28 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photos taken on Apr 28 2017 in Ellicott City, MD
* photo taken on Aug 1 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 16 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Apr 6 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Straw Hat'
Forms a clump, up to 1.2 x 3.2 in 4 years, eventually slightly wider.
The fine-textured, mid-green foliage often lays almost flat during the summer. The leaves are up to 11 inches in length. It makes an excellent lawn substiture for partial shade.
Hardy zones 4 to 7, this cultivar displays superior heat tolerance, thriving as far south as Arkansas and North Carolina.
* patent photos
Carex phyllocephala ( Japanese Palm Sedge )
A Japanese native, forming a rhizomatous spreading, dense clump, up to 2 x 2 feet in size. The straited, sword shaped, evergreen leaves, up to 10 x 0.5 inches in size, are green.
The stems are "Palm-like" with the foliage whorled towards the stem tips.
The flowers are not very conspicuous.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 in partial to full shade on moist, fertile soil.
* photos taken on Aug 15 2014 at Maryland Zoo, Baltimore, MD
'Sparkler'
Reaches a maximum height of 3 feet, with foliage that is deep green with irregular vertical white stripes and a bold white border. Very exotic in appearance, looking almost like a miniature Bamboo.
Very shade tolerant. Propagation from seed usually results in all green plants.
* photos taken on Mar 18 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC
'Spark Plug'
Forms a vigorous clump up to 1.3 x 1.8 feet.
The mid-green foliage is boldly longitudinally striped white. The leaves are up to 7.5 x 0.5 inches in size.
Hardy zones 7b to 9
Carex plantaginea ( Plantain Sedge )
A very ornamental, moderate growing, rhizomatous, dense clump ( maximum size 2 x 3 feet ) forming perennial plant native to eastern North America ( from southern Manitoba to Batchewana, Ontario to Haliburton, Ontario to southern Quebec to Nova Scotia; south to central Minnesota to southern Illinois to northern Alabama and far northern Georgia to central Maryland ). It is endangered in Minnesota, Illinois, Georgia, South Carolina, Maryland and New Jersey ). It occurred sporadically on the Ohio shore during the 1800s. It is found in moist, rich woodland in the wild.
The straited lance-shaped, evergreen leaves, up to 24 x 1.5 inches in size, are glossy deep green.
If is an excellent evergreen groundcover for shady sites, even for climates colder than where the Japanese Sedges will grow.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 preferring partial shade on moist, fertile, well drained soil. Even tolerating dry shade. Propagate by means of division during early spring.
* photos taken on March 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum
* photos taken on Oct 17 2013 in Olney, MD
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photos taken on July 27 2015 in Bayfield, ON
* photos taken on Apr 17 2016 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on July 16 2016 in Bayfield, ON
* photos taken on Jul 17 2017 in Ottawa, ON
* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 11 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 29 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Sep 15 2021 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 1 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Mountain Yodel'
Reaches up to 2 feet with broad, glossy, evergreen foliage.
Hardy zones 5 to 9
Carex platyphylla ( Broadleafed Silver Sedge )
An evergreen clumping grass, native to dry woodland understories in eastern North America ( from northeast Illinois to southern Michigan to Quebec & New Brunswick; south to southeast Missouri to eastern Tennessee to Virginia ). It occurred sporadically on the Ohio shore during the 1800s. It forms a clump, up to 1 x 2 feet in size.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 16 x 1.2 ( rarely over 12 x 1 ) inches in size, are powdery-blue.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in partial to full shade on moderately dry to moist soil.
* photos taken on Oct 19 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
Carex radiata ( Eastern Star Sedge )
A clumping sedge, reaching up to 1.5 x 2.5 ( rarely over 1 x 2 ) feet in size, that is native to eastern North America ( from Manitoba to Newfoundland; south to far eastern Kansas to northern Alabama to central North Carolina ). It makes a great substitute for Liriope.
The very narrow foliage is mid-green. The leaves are up to 0.05 inches wide.
Clusters of star-shaped, bright green spikelets appear during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in partial shade on well drained soil. It is drought tolerant.
* photos taken on Mar 18 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Nov 10 2020 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on Aug 1 2022 in Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Carex riparia ( Greater Pond Sedge )
A fast growing, perennial grass, reaching up to 4.3 x 6 feet, that is a widespread native across Eurasia. It may be invasive unless planted in a pot to contain it.
The narrow leaves are up to 5.3 feet x 0.3 inches.
The showy deep reddish-brown flowers are borne on stalks up to 3.3 feet high.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist or wet soil to up to 18 inches deep in fresh water.
'Variegata' ( Variegated Greater Pond Sedge )
Foliage reaches up to 2 feet in height and is boldly center striped white and bordered deep green. It makes a very attractive plant for garden ponds or the waters edge.
Carex roanensis ( Roan Mountain Sedge )
A perennial grass native to southern Appalachian Mountains in the eastern U.S. It is critically endangered in KY, PA & GA. Endangered in TN, WV, VA & NC.
Carex scaposa ( Chinese Pink Fairy Sedge )
A moderate growing, evergreen clumping perennial, reaching up to 1.3 x 2 foot, that is native to forested mountain slopes in southern China and Vietnam.
The broadly lance-shaped leaves, up to 14 x 2 inches in size, are glossy blue-green.
The pink flowers are borne on spikes up to 1 foot high, during mid-summer, repeating during early autumn. The flowers attract honeybees, unusual for a sedge.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 in partial to full shade on well drained soil.
Carex rosea ( Rosy Sedge )
Also called Curly wood sedge. Forms a non-spreading, semi-evergreen ( evergreen in mild climates ) clump, up to 1 x 3 ( rarely over 0.8 x 2 feet, it is native to diverse habitat ranging from upland deciduous forests to floodplain forests in eastern North America ( from northeast Wyoming to Manitoba to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to Tobermory to Parry Sound to Pembroke, Ontario to southern Quebec to Nova Scotia; south to eastern Texas to far northwestern Florida to central North Carolina ).
The very fine-textured foliage is bright green. The leaves are up to 12 x 0.1 inches in size.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in partial to full shade on well drained soil. It can tolerate both drought and temporary flooding.
* photo taken on Aug 1 2022 in Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Carex scoparia ( Broom Sedge )
It is native to parts of the Rocky Mountains ( from British Columbia to Alberta; south to northern California to central New Mexico ) and eastern North America ( from southern Manitoba to central Ontario to central Kansas to northern Mississippi to central North Carolina ). It forms a semi-evergreen clump up to 1.5 x 2.9 feet and is found in swamps in the wild.
Carex siderosticha ( Japanese Broadleaf Sedge )
Forming a fast rhizomatous spreading, long lived, dense clump, up to 1 x 2 feet, that is native to mountain forests in far eastern Russia, northeastern China, Korea and Japan. Rarely seen, this forms an excellent woodland groundcover ( mix with Hostas and Ferns ). The straited, sword-shaped leaves are up to 8 x 1 inches in size. The deep green foliage turns rich golden-yellow during autumn after frosts.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 ( zone 3 with reliable snowfall ) preferring partial to full shade on moist, fertile, well drained soil. This Sedge enjoys climates with hot humid summers. Cut back during early winter. Propagation is from division during early spring.
* photos of unknown internet source
* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
'Banana Boat'
Forms a dense clump up to 1 x 2 feet, with very attractive, tropical-looking foliage that is intense golden-yellow with a narrow mid-green border and a narrow green longitudinal stripes. The leaves are up to 1 inch in width.
This is an excellent substitite for Japanese Forest Grass. It is great in containers and can be used in dry shade.
'Island Brocade'
A very attractive semi-evergreen to evergreen clump forming perennial, that is moderate growing ( spreading up to 1 foot per year ). It is an excellent plant to brighten up a dark corner and mixes well with Hostas, Helleboris and Epimedium.
The arching, wide leaf blades, up to 18 x 2 inches, are green with bold creamy-yellow stripes in the leaves.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in partial to full shade.
* photos taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photo taken @ Smithsonian Inst, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photos taken on Jul 17 2017 in Ottawa, ON
'Lemon Zest'
Foliage is bright yellow. The leaves are up to 12 x 1 inches in size.
* photos taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
'Snow Cap'
Forms a compact clump, reaching up to 6 x 15 inches in size. It makes a great Hosta substitute.
The foliage is pure white with a thin deep green border. The leaves are up to 6 inches in length.
* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Surf's Up'
The deep green foliage is boldly longitudinally striped white.
'Variegata'
Reaches up to 1 foot in height, and usually moderate spreading through can be fast on moist, very fertile soils. Clumps typically reach up to 3 feet across in 5 years.
The attractive foliage is mid-green with a white margin and some longitudinal striping.
Hardy zones 4 to 9.
* photo taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Carex socialis ( Social Sedge )
Also called Low Woodland Sedge. Forms a semi-evergreen ( evergreen in mild climates ), rhizomatous clump, reaching up to 1 x 2.8 feet, that is native to eastern North America ( from eastern Oklahoma to southeastern Missouri to southern Indiana to southeastern North Carolina; south to eastern Texas to central Louisiana to central South Carolina ). It is usually found in semi-open floodplain forests in the wild. It makes a great lawn substitute for moist woodlands. It also makes a great substitute for Mondo Grass. It is critically endangered in Alabama, Georgia and North Carolina. Endangered in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee and South Carolina.
The fine-textured foliage is bright green.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in partial shade on moist to permanently wet soil. It is flood tolerant, it is also tolerant of clay and temporary drought. It is cut to the ground during late winter.
* photo taken on Aug 1 2022 in Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Carex stricta ( Tussock Sedge )
A moderate growing, rhizome spreading, dense, clumping Sedge, reaching up to 3.5 ( rarely over 2.5 ) feet in height, that is native to wet boggy sites and tidal marshes but can tolerate temporary drought. It is native to eastern North America ( from far northwest North Dakota to Winisk, Ontario to Quebec to Nova Scotia; south to Iowa to Tennessee to North Carolina ). In the Windsor/Essex County, Ontario region it was noted as only occurring in the marsh at Point Pelee during the 1800s. It also occurred only sporadically on the Ohio shore as well as at Detroit, Michigan during that time.
The arching, bright green, fountain-like foliage is borne in dense tussocks.
The attractive foliage turns to light tan color during the winter.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on fertile, moist soil. Cut back in early spring to make room for new growth.
'Bowles Golden'
A short lived, clumping perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3 feet x 20 inches. The foliage is golden-yellow at first, turning to bright green late in the summer.
Carex sylvatica ( Wood Sedge )
An attractive, evergreen, woodland groundcover that is native to Eurasia.
It has deep green, V-shaped leaf blades, up to 40 x 0.5 inches in length ( usually much shorter ).
Hardy zones 3 to 8; it thrives in sun or shade and is tolerant of clay.
Carex testacea ( Orange New Zealand Sedge )
Forms a moderate growing clump, up to 3 x 2.5 feet, with fine-textured, orange-tinted foliage.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 on protected sites )
* photo taken on Sep 22 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 27 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on July 1 2024 @ Howard Comm. College, Columbia, MD
* photo taken on July 23 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Prairie Fire'
Forms a moderate growing clump up to 2.3 x 2 feet.
The bronze-green foliage is tipped intense orange.
* photo taken on Aug 15 2011 in Howard Co, MD
* photo taken on July 1 2014 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Mar 18 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photos taken on Apr 20 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 18 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 1 2020 in Elkridge, MD
Carex texensis ( Catlin Sedge )
A rhizomatous perennial grass, reaching up to 1 x 2.9 ( rarely over 0.5 in height ) feet, with fine textured, very narrow mid-green foliage. It is a widespread native over the eastern U.S. from Oklahoma to far southeast Nebraska to central Illinois to New York; south to Texas to Georgia. It is generally found on savannahs and open oak woodlands ( esp Post Oak ) in the wild. Catlin Sedge is very attractive and makes a great lawn substitute. It also looks great between large boulders, where its fine textured foliage provides great contrast. It can be moved occasionally on a high setting, especially during early spring before the new growth begins. It is evergreen in the south, semi-evergreen to deciduous north of zone 7.
Hardy zones 5 to 9, preferring partial shade though tolerating full sun or deeper shade. It prefers sandy, well drained soil. It can grow on moist or dry sites and is clay tolerant. It is deer resistant. Catlin Sedge is grown from seed or root division.
* photo taken on Oct 3 2017 in Columbia, MD
Carex tumulicola ( Berkeley Sedge )
A very tough yet decorative, fast growing, evergreen clumping grass, reaching up to 2 x 1.5 feet in height, that is native to northern California. It is great used as a specimen or for mass groundcover plantings.
The foliage is deep green.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 in sun or shade, tolerating even dense tree roots.
Carex virgata
Forms a fast growing, upright, evergreen clump, up to 3 x 3 feet.
The narrow foliage is bright green.
Hardy zones 6a+, very tough and easy to grow.
Carex vulpinoidea ( Fox Sedge )
A semi-evergreen, clumping perennial, reaching up to 3 x 3.6 feet. It is found in wet prairie, shallow marshes and swampland in the wild in its southern Canada and most of mainland U.S. It spreads by short stolons to form small clumps.
The narrow foliage is bright green. It can be deciduous to nearly evergreen depending on climate. The leaves are up to 36 x 0.1 inches in size.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate flooding up to 6 inches
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