Carex Pensylvanica

Oak Sedge, Sedge

Note: This is an archive page preserved for informational use.
Cultural and Growing Info is provided below.

Fountain-like clumps of bright green narrow foliage.

This graceful but tough little Sedge, native to meadows, develops dense roots making it perfect for erosion control on a shady bank. The arching bright green narrow foliage forms tight fountain-like clumps that spread slowly. Birds will feast on brown seed capsules that cling to the top of stems. With sufficient moisture, this variety can tolerate more sun than other Carex.

Carex Pensylvanica is most effective when planted in masses. May be used as a lawn substitute to cover large areas. Never needs mowing; but if desired, mow 2-3 times per year to 2” tall. Provides shelter for birds.

Code CAPV

Patent

Plant Type Perennials, Grasses

Species

Height Short 8-10"

Spacing Plant 10" apart

Bloom Time Not Applicable

Sun / Shade Half Sun / Half Shade to Full Shade

Zones 4-8

Soil Type Normal, Clay, Acidic

Water Needs Medium

Sold In Plantable Pots (3.5x3.5x4")

Special Features

  • Deer Resistant
  • Winter Interest

Planting Sites

  • For a Slope or Bank
  • Edgers
  • OK in Containers
  • Shade Tolerant
  • Wet Site Tolerant

Carex General Information

Carex is a huge genus of more than 1,500 species of perennials with triangular, grass-like stems. On mature plants, tiny brown seedheads may develop on panicles of short spikes. Suited to many sites, Sedge will tolerate wet and/or shade well. Excellent in foreground or as an edger. Spreads slowly. Grass-like, colorful foliage is often brightly hued or variegated. Supplemental watering may be necessary for top performance. Ornamental Grasses and Sedges are restricted from Idaho and Oregon. Idaho has restricted all potted plant material from being shipped into Idaho at this time.

Carex Plant Care

Sedge prefers a moist, well-drained soil with part shade. Very easy to maintain, Carex requires little if any feeding and in early spring, cut back by 1/3 or simply tease out dead blades to spruce up appearance. If preferred, foliage may be cut to ground in early spring before the new growth emerges. Division is best done in the spring.

Plantable Pots

Our plants are grown in 3.5x3.5x4” plantable pots. Made from 100% biodegradable coconut husk fibers (coir), these pots have tremendous advantages over plastic pots. With better air exchange, this "breathable" pot fosters robust root growth and reduces transplant shock since you can plant the pots directly in the ground. The pot naturally becomes part of the soil on its own over time—no composting required—and since they're made from a renewable resource that requires very little energy, they're earth-friendly too!

100% Guarantee

We offer a 100% unconditional guarantee for all our perennials to reach you in good condition and to grow. If you're not satisfied, we'll reship or refund immediately. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions or concerns—we share your passion for gardening and want your new plants to thrive in your border!

Shipping Details

We use custom, earth-friendly packaging to make sure your order arrives in great condition, and we ship based on the best planting time for your growing zone (see the approximate dates below), unless otherwise indicated at checkout. If you wish, you can indicate a specific ship date during checkout.

Spring

  • Zone 3, 4: Early to Mid May
  • Zone 5: Late April to Early May
  • Zone 6: Mid to Late April
  • Zone 7: Early to Mid April
  • Zone 8: Late March to Early April
  • Zone 9, 10: Late March

Fall

  • Zone 2, 3, 4: Early September
  • Zone 5: Early to Mid September
  • Zone 6: Mid September
  • Zone 7: Mid to Late September
  • Zone 8, 9, 10: Late September to Early October

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