Cherokee Sedge - Carex Cherokeensis. The Cherokee Sedge is a grass-like, clumping sedge that is native to North America. It has tiny greenish, white flowers and seed spikes that resemble the shape of wheat. It has thick green narrow leaves that gracefully droop and are pleasant to look at. The Cherokee Sedge can tolerate droughts but does tend to thrive better in moist environments.
Cherokee Sedge is an Evergreen, Grass Like Plant used as an Accent In Small Gardens
It reaches full height and width in just over a years time. Cherokee Sedge is an evergreen, grass-like plant that is often used as an accent plant in small gardens, as a filler in more extensive gardens, or as a border along the edges of streams or ponds to help maintain the integrity and prevent soil erosion. The Cherokee Sedge's long, narrow leaves are a deep green color that can nicely offset other plants in your outdoor space. It sports small greenish-white flowers in the late spring and early summer, and its seed spikes (with a similar appearance to wheat) reach maturity in the fall. This plant has an average growth rate reaches full height and width in about a year's time. A natural plant to take care of, the Cherokee Sedge is relatively low-maintenance and should not be significantly cut back. However, if one desires a tidier appearance, this can be achieved through the trimming of brown tips in the winter and early spring. The Cherokee Sedge thrives in moist soil, and as such, it should frequently be watered for best results. It is a hardy plant, however, and can withstand drier conditions in the event of a drought. The Cherokee Sedge does not have any significant problems with insects, and it is even resistant to deer! Making the Cherokee Sedge part of your garden is sure to add a natural looking beauty to your outdoor space, which can be enjoyed for years to come.
One of the tallest sedges in the Southeastern United States is the Cherokee Sedge (species Carex Cherokeensis Schwein) in the Cypress family. This perennial, grass-like plant tolerates drought but thrives in moist soil. It is most often found in or near the border of a forest.
Native to Southeastern zones 6-9, this native North American sedge plant performs the function of a landscape foundation in natural areas, rain gardens, meadow gardens, and ground covers. Tough and durable, the Cherokee Sedge flourishes in moist to wet soil but accommodates average soil as well. Direct sunlight tolerated, but partial shade (especially in the hottest part of the day) is ideal.
These plants have delicate, curved evergreen leaves that measure 16 inches in length and a quarter-inch in width growing from the base in a triangular pattern. Clumps of Cherokee Sedge are only 6 to 8 inches tall in the winter but may double their height during summer months.
Of the more than 2000 species of sedge plants, some are difficult to identify, but the Cherokee Sedge is distinctive enough to be differentiated from other sedges. A dainty flower appears in mid-spring, followed by a greenish, wheat-like seed pod early in summer. The uniqueness of the blooms helps classify the species, as sedges can only be recognized when in full bloom.
The rich green foliage, delicate, grass-like flower, and shapely seed spike make the Cherokee sedge a perfect partner for woodland perennial wildflowers in any setting.
