Sedge Carex

This is a genus with ca. 2,100 species of grass-like perennial plants called sedges found all over the world. The genus is in the sedge family (Cyperaceae) and is distinguished from other members of the family by being monoecious and flowers lacking a perianth. The flowers have a bottle- or urn-like structure (the utricle or perigynium) that surrounds the ovary and, later, the achene. The genus name is Latin for "cutter," referring to the sharp, triangular stem edges found on most members of this genus.  

Cultural conditions depend on the species: some require full sun, while others thrive in shade. They are slow-growing and can be more difficult to grow in a landscape setting than ornamental grasses. Some sedges can handle light foot traffic. They quickly show signs of stress if they are over-fertilized or over-watered. In cultivation, most sedges are hardy plants, but they can be sensitive to temperature fluctuations and soil conditions. They are also slow to recover from being cut back.

Sedges have a wide variety of leaf colors and textures, but the stems are triangular in cross-section (unlike grass stems, which are round). Often, the leaves are distinctly folded along the midvein. Most species in the genus spread through rhizomes or stolons, but some species grow in tufts.

The plants in cultivation, especially the ornamental cultivars, are sometimes difficult to assign to species. Putative interspecific hybrids further muddy the taxonomic waters. The group is a difficult one taxonomically.

Plant them along a border front, in small groups, or use them in containers. Many do well in shade gardens and rain gardens

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:  Aphids, mealy bugs, and slugs are rarely a problem. Rust and crown or root rots can occur with over-watering. Species differ in their resistance to phytophthora root and crown rot. See NC Extension publication linked in the sidebar.

Additional Carex Images at Juniper Level Botanic Garden