Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cyperaceae

Genus:

Carex

Species:

Carex pensylvanica

USDA Symbol:

CAPE6

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

30 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun,Part Shade,Shade

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun

Ground Cover:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Caterpillars:

★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

small mammals, ground-nesting birds

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Tolerates periodic fire in oak savanna and woodland ecosystems. Resprouts vigorously from rhizomes after low-intensity burns.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

good drainage preferred

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

thrives in open woodlands and forest edges

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds require light for germination. Surface sow or barely cover. Fresh seed germinates more reliably than stored seed.