Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cyperaceae

Genus:

Carex

Species:

Carex ouachitana

USDA Symbol:

CAOU

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

60 cm

Light Requirements:

Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Resprouts from base after fire; tolerates periodic burns typical of Ouachita Mountain forests.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

prefers habitats near streams or wetlands

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days

Germination Time:

14–60 days

Notes:

Seeds require cold stratification; germination can be erratic and slow.