Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cyperaceae

Genus:

Carex

Species:

Carex bicknellii

USDA Symbol:

CABI3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

90 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun,Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

may,jun,jul

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Common in prairie ecosystems with regular fire return intervals. Resprouts vigorously from rhizomes after fire and benefits from fire-induced nutrient cycling.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

moist, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

good drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

prefers open prairies and meadows

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from cold-moist stratification. Surface sow or barely cover as light may enhance germination.