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broadleaf sedge

Scientific Name: Carex platyphylla

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: MI (broad-leaved sedge)

       

Broad-leaf Sedge (Carex spp.)

This page provides information about several broad-leaf sedge species and cultivars, focusing on their ornamental uses and characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some varieties, like Carex siderosticha 'Variegata', have straplike leaves that might be attractive to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Some varieties, like Carex siderosticha 'Variegata', have straplike leaves that might be attractive to children.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Genus: Carex
  • Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
  • Species mentioned:
    • Carex siderosticha
    • Carex platyphylla
    • Carex albursina (White Bear Sedge - identity sometimes uncertain in place of Carex platyphylla)
  • Cultivars mentioned:
    • Carex siderosticha 'Variegata' (Variegated Broad Leaf Sedge)
    • Carex siderosticha 'Banana Boat'
    • Carex siderosticha 'Island Brocade'
    • Carex x siderosticha &#39Variegata&#39
  • Common Names:
    • Broad-leaf Sedge
    • Broadleaf Sedge
    • Creeping Broadleaf Sedge
    • Broad-leaved Wood Sedge
    • Blue Satin Sedge

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Carex siderosticha 'Variegata' is described as a very bright and attractive spreading groundcover.
  • It has wide, bright green leaves with distinct stripes (likely white or cream).
  • Carex siderosticha 'Banana Boat' grows to be 8-10 inches in height and 18 inches in width.
  • Sedges, in general, are grass-like plants, but their leaves are arranged in clusters of three.
  • Sedges have triangular-shaped, solid stems.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Some varieties are native to sedge meadows, shallow marshes, and lake shores.
  • Carex albursina is a common broadleaf sedge of calcareous Midwestern woodlands.
  • They thrive in shade or part shade conditions.

Ecological Role

  • Sedges can sometimes be considered weeds, requiring control with herbicides.

Quirky Facts

  • The leaves of Carex siderosticha &#39Variegata&#39 resemble striped ribbon.

Uses

  • Many varieties are used as accent plants in gardens, particularly for edging walkways.
  • They are suitable for dark areas in the garden.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • This plant can be affected by broadleaf weeds, grasses, and sedges

Further Information

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database: Provides information and photos of Carex platyphylla.
  • Morton Arboretum: Has examples of Carex platyphylla growing in shade beds.