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Carex plantaginea (Seersucker sedge)

Carex plantaginea Photo/Illustration: Virginia Small



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Carex plantaginea KARE-eks plan-taj-in-EE-ah Common Name: Seersucker sedge Genus: Carex
Seersucker sedge is an evergreen, spreading sedge with narrow brown-black flowers on 8-inch stems in spring. Its wide, puckered foliage is shiny and bright green, reaching over a foot long. This sedge is native to rich woods of the eastern U.S. and makes a nice edger or accent plant.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Seersucker sedge makes a great texture plant for moist shady places.
 Care: Avoid extremes of dry or wet soil.
 Propagation: Sow seed in containers and overwinter in a cold frame. Divide betwen spring and early summer.
 Problems: Rust, smut, and leaf spot. Aphids are possible.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Spreads
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Native; Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Spring
Flower Color Brown Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Roadside
Style Rock Garden, Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Winter Interest, Spring Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Rushes and Sedges

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