Walter's Sedge

Carex striata

Native to:
United States

📍 View on iNaturalist →

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Cyperaceae
Genus:
Carex
Species:
Carex striata
USDA Symbol:
CAST41

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Graminoid
Height:
90 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul

Wildlife Benefits

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

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Dukes' skipper (Euphyes dukesi)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
waterfowl, songbirds
Deer Resistant:
Yes

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:
commonly found in wetlands and marshy areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–45 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate best with light and consistent moisture. Fresh seed germinates more readily than stored seed.