Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica)

Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica)

Pennsylvania Sedge knits a woodland garden together, forming a soft, low carpet of fine green foliage. As a semi-evergreen, it stays up year-round and starts putting on fresh green growth right away in spring. It takes a break during the heat of summer and then starts up again just as most other plants begin to fade in early September. It works beautifully beneath trees and shrubs, along woodland paths, or woven through other shade-loving natives as a ground cover. Once established, it requires very little maintenance. 

Growing Conditions
Light: Part shade to shade
Soil: Dry to medium; prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils
Height: 6–12 inches
Spread: 1–2 feet
Zones: 3–8
Bloom time: April through May

Wildlife Value
Pennsylvania Sedge is an important component of woodland ecosystems, providing cover and nesting material for small wildlife and supporting a variety of insects. Its seeds are eaten by birds and other wildlife, while its dense growth provides habitat close to the ground for insects and other small creatures.

Blooms Alongside: Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), Jacob's ladder (Polemonium reptans), Palm Sedge (Carex muskingumensis), Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum), Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)