Sedge

Carex × helvola

Native to:
Austria, Canada, Finland, France, Greenland, Iceland, Italy, Norway, Sweden, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Cyperaceae
Genus:
Carex
Species:
Carex × helvola
USDA Symbol:
CAHE20

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Graminoid
Height:
40 cm
Light Requirements:
Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fall Color:
yellow

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
tolerates poor drainage
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
often found in wetlands and marshy areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–90 days
Germination Time:
14–60 days
Notes:
Seeds require cold stratification and consistent moisture. Germination can be erratic.