SafePlants

Plantain-leaved Sedge (Carex plantaginea)

Carex plantaginea, commonly known as Plantain-leaved Sedge or Seersucker Sedge, is a delightful native sedge appreciated for its unique foliage and adaptability to shady, moist environments.

Considerations for Pets

• This sedge can have foliage that becomes untidy with tip dieback and may have to be cut back periodically.

Considerations for Children

• Historically, the root was used as a charm against snake bites, and as a topical remedy for them.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex plantaginea Lam.
• Common Names: Plantain-leaved Sedge, Plantainleaf Sedge, Seersucker Sedge
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)
• Class: Liliopsida (Monocots)
• Subclass: Includes the lily family.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to moist, deciduous forests.
• Tolerates part-sun if the soil is kept consistently moist, especially during hot summer months.
• Observed in locations such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A perennial sedge forming rosettes of basal leaves.
• Flowering stalks (culms) occasionally develop to about 1-2 feet tall.
• Foliage is bright green with a wrinkled or pleated look. Leaf margins are wavy.
• The base of the plant can be strongly tinged with red-purple.
• Flowers are subtle and purple-brown, appearing in May. Some species also have attractive flowers that are mahogany-red spikes.
• Forms clumps and spreads evenly.

Ecological Role

• A valuable foliage plant for shade gardens.
• Thrives as a ground cover under trees.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Historically used by the Menominee People.

Quirky Facts

• The root was historically used by the Menominee People as a charm against, and a topical remedy for, snake bites.
• Also known as Seersucker Sedge due to the wrinkled appearance of its leaves.
• Considered by some to be the showiest of all woodland sedges.