Description

Growing Carex muskingumensis is like growing little palm trees! It is an adaptable wetland sedge with a fun pinwheel pattern of bright green leaves resembling palm fronds (thus one of the common names). Light green to brown spikelets of flowers add contrasting texture to the fine foliage.

Best in constantly moist, fertile soil. Will grow in shallow water (3-4″ deep). Needs consistent moisture if growing in full sun, but with more shade would need less water. Tends to flop in too much shade. Spreads slowly by rhizomes and seeds to create dense clumps.

Carex are larval hosts to skipper butterflies, attract butterflies and feed turtles. Who wouldn’t want a turtle in their garden? 😊

Height: 2-3 ft.
Spread: 2-3 ft.
Family: Cyperaceae
Bloom time: May to September
Sun: full sun to full shade
Water: medium to wet
According to Rutgers University, Carex are “rarely damaged” by deer.

“Sedges have edges, rushes are round, grasses are hollow, straight to the ground.”

photo credit: Jay Sturner