Pennsylvania Sedge

Carex pensylvanica

Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica) is a groundcover plant with semi-evergreen grassy foliage with less tendency to flop than other sedges. They prefer mesic to dry soil in part sun to shade, growing to about 1 foot tall. Colonies form as the plants mature, making them a good choice for groundcovers on shaded banks and slopes. Companion plants include Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata) and Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense).

Maintenance

From mid-summer to fall, rust and smut may affect the appearance of Pennsylvania Sedge. In late winter, cut the dead foliage back to 2 inches.

About

Light Requirements
Part Sun, Shade
Moisture Requirements
Banks, Slopes
Soil Requirements
Loam, Sand
Height
Very Short, Short
Spacing
1 foot
Category
Groundcover
Attracts
Birds
Illinois Native Plant Status
Illinois Native, Indiana Native
Bloom Time
April, May
Bloom Color
Yellow
Seasonality
Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter
Sociability
Groups of 50+
Other Notable Cultivars & Varieties
Carex pensylvanica ‘Straw Hat’