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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 'Variegata'
- 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 'Variegata' 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.