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Appalachian sedge

Scientific Name: Carex appalachica

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: KY (Appalachian sedge)

       

Appalachian Sedge (Carex appalachica)

Appalachian sedge is a fine-textured, clump-forming sedge native to the dry woods of eastern North America. Its graceful, fountaining habit and adaptability to shady conditions make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance ground cover or lawn alternatives.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant is noted for its fine texture, which may be attractive to pets.
  • It forms clumps, which could be disturbed by digging or playful animals.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Carex appalachica J. Webber & P.W. Ball
  • Common Names: Appalachian sedge
  • Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
  • Order: Cyperales
  • Other Names: Carex appalachia (often seen as a misspelling)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to eastern North America, ranging from Quebec south to South Carolina.
  • Thrives in dry-mesic mixed deciduous forests and upper elevation woodlands.
  • Often found in dry woods, even under hemlock trees.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Fine-textured, medium green leaves that grow 12-24 inches (30.5-61 cm) in length.
  • Forms low clumps 4-8 inches (10.2-20.3 cm) in diameter.
  • Clump-forming habit without rhizomes.
  • Arching habit, resembling a green fountain.

Ecological Role

  • Good for soil stabilization and erosion control, particularly on slopes.
  • An excellent alternative to Liriope and other ornamental grasses.
  • Drought-tolerant and can withstand root competition.

Cultivation and Care

  • Prefers dry to average soil and shady conditions.
  • Tolerant of full shade and drought-resistant once established.
  • Cut back aging foliage in late winter before spring flowering.
  • Suitable for zones 3-8.

Quirky Facts

  • Appalachian sedge can look good even into December, maintaining its form and color.

Further Information

  • USDA PLANTS Database: http://plants.usda.gov
  • Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
  • Plant Delights Nursery: Offers Carex appalachica for sale online.
  • Emerald Coast Growers: Provides wholesale liners of Carex appalachica.
  • Toadshade Wildflower Farm: A mail-order nursery in Frenchtown, NJ, specializing in native perennials.
  • Discover Life: Page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex appalachica.
  • TERMIUM: Government of Canada's terminology and linguistic data bank.