Pennsylvania Sedge | Carex Pensylvanica
Pennsylvania Sedge is a versatile, low-maintenance ground cover that transforms any space into a lush and enchanting haven. With its graceful appearance, adaptability, and numerous ecological benefits, it is an excellent choice for residential and commercial landscaping projects.
Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex Pensylvanica) Is a Weeping Perennial Grass
It blooms from May to July each year. The blossoms usually feature white, green, or brown flowers. The grass can reach 20 inches tall and has a creeping growth habit with varying textures. Female spikes have lengthy, white, thread-like styles, while males are about an inch long and have creamy-yellow stamens. The leaves stay pale green during spring, turning a golden-tan hue during fall.
Use Pennsylvania (Carex Pensylvanica) Sedge For the Health of Your Soil
Its horizontally spreading roots extend deep into the earth. This allows the roots to loosen compacted soil, improving its structure by increasing aeration and drainage. On slopes and other regions vulnerable to erosion, these roots also do an excellent job of retaining soil.
As the plants mature and die back, the decaying leaves and broken roots provide organic material for the soil. This organic material stimulates microbial activity, increases soil moisture retention, and improves soil fertility.
Add Depth And Texture
Because of its naturally low growth pattern, it forms thick clusters of leaves. And because these plants are thin and pliable, they spill over the sides of paths and flower beds with elegance. When used along edges and borders, this quality creates a weeping or cascading impression.
Their evergreen leaves' year-round color and texture add color and vitality to borders and pathways. Their feathery-soft leaves have a thin, delicate texture contrasting with the border's other hardscape features and plants. This characteristic draws the eye and creates a sense of depth in landscaping and garden areas.
Eliminate Weeds With This Plant
Shrubby is densely clustered, providing both cover and shade for the ground. This kind of dense growth can reduce the establishment and development of weeds by outcompeting them for nutrients, space, and sunshine. Many people use Pennsylvania Sedge to help with spring weed management and to keep annual weeds to a minimum in the winter.
We create with intention. Our products solve real problems with clean design and honest materials.
Exposure
Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica) thrives in partial to full shade. It prefers dappled sunlight or areas with sunrise sun and evening shade, but it can also tolerate full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded landscapes.
Height at Maturity
Under 3 Feet
Usage
Landscaping
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
USPS
Planting Zones
3-8
How To Grow & Care Tips
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Ornamental Grass
Bare root ornamental grasses are a simple, cost-effective way to add texture, movement, and structure to your garden. Plant them in early spring or fall while they are still dormant. Before planting, soak the roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil—most ornamental grasses thrive in full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types. Dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots and deep enough so the crown sits level with the soil surface.
Place the grass in the hole, fan out the roots, backfill with soil, and press gently to eliminate air pockets. Water deeply and keep the soil evenly moist during the first growing season. Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and reduce weeds, but avoid covering the crown. Once established, ornamental grasses require little care—just cut them back in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. They’re drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and a beautiful addition to any landscape.