SafePlants

Cherokee Sedge (Carex cherokeensis)

Also known as Cherokee Sedge, Carex cherokeensis is a popular native sedge gaining recognition as a foundation plant for meadow gardens.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions the presence of seedheads.
• The text refers to it as grass/sedge, generally not toxic.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions the presence of seedheads.
• The text refers to it as grass/sedge, generally not toxic.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex cherokeensis Schwein.
• Common Name: Cherokee Sedge
• Family: Mention of Kingdom Plantae.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to southeastern United States.
• Found in wet meadows, woodlands, bottomlands, and riparian habitats.
• Specific mention of Mississippi in some contexts.

Ecological Role

• Serves as a foundation plant in meadow gardens and natural areas.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Evergreen, clumping sedge.
• Forms slowly spreading clumps.
• Reaches up to 0.5m (approximately 18 inches) in height.
• Narrow, shiny, upright leaves.
• Attractive pendulous flower/seed stalks in late spring.
• Wispy blue-green foliage.

Cultivation and Care

• Tolerates hot and cold weather.
• Prefers full to light sun.
• Adaptable to moist to dry soil types.

Quirky Facts

• It is mentioned as a little-used native plant delineated as rare or endangered throughout most of its habitat.
• Neither the flowers nor the fruit are ornamentally significant.

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database.
• Discover Life.
• iNaturalist.org
• Dave's Garden.