Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cyperaceae

Genus:

Carex

Species:

Carex helleri

USDA Symbol:

CAHE6

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

60 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

may,jun,jul

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

small mammals, birds

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Resprouts vigorously from rhizomes after fire. Common in post-fire montane meadows and forest openings.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

moist, well-drained sandy loam

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

good drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

prefers habitats near streams or wet meadows

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–60 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from cold-moist stratification. Germination can be slow and irregular.