Early Sedge

 

Ecological Considerations:

Early Sedge is a low sedge characterized by soft, delicate, arching, semi-evergreen leaves which are green in summer and turn tannish in winter. It typically grows in a clump up to 8″ tall and is semi-evergreen in moderately cold winter climates.

Early Sedge grows especially well in upland woodlands, thinly wooded bluffs, wooded slopes, and sandy or rocky open areas in wooded zones and is often found in dry woodland areas where oak trees are present. It grows well in partial or dappled sunlight and mesic to dry conditions with good drainage, preferring a sandy loam or loose loam with ample organic matter. The plants spread by rhizomes but may self-seed in optimum growing conditions.

Early Sedge’s narrow, grass-like, medium green leaves are generally 8 to 12 inches long and ordinarily are shorter than the flowering stems. This sedge is monoecious bearing spikelets of male flowers above female flowers. The flowers bloom in late spring in inflorescences atop rough, sharply triangular culms which rise up singly from the rhizomes. Female flowers are followed by tiny fruits enclosed in sac-like bracts.

Map Areas where this Plant can be used for Revegetation: 2C

Propagation Mechanisms/Strategies for Encouraging its Establishment:

This sedge is best propagated by dividing and replanting mature plants in spring, making sure each section has roots and leaves. It spreads well by rhizomes.

Best Planting Practices/Options and Pros and Cons of Options:

Key Issues Regarding its Ecology ( e.g. Which Invasives Threaten it, What Conditions Favor it):

Associated Ecological Benefits:

Availability of Locally Sourced Seeds and Plants:

Welcome to Blue Moon Farm

Case Studies of Native Plant Establishment Efforts/Lessons Learned

Additional photos: