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Carex pensylvanica

Pennsylvania Sedge

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Carex pensylvanica

This sedge forms short clusters and spreads slowly by rhizomes to form a lush carpet. This thick mat of growth provides excellent seasonal cover for foraging small songbirds and the insects and other small animals they love to eat. Reddish-brown, thimble-like flowers top the narrow, fine textured leaves in spring. A number of birds and small mammals feed on the seeds.

Benefits:

  • Excellent ground cover for dry shade

  • Provides seasonal cover for birds and other woodland wildlife

  • Birds and small mammals feed on the seed

  • Semi-evergreen lawn alternative

  • Deer resistant
  • Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips

    Grows easily in full sun, part shade and shade.

    Ideal for planting under deciduous trees.

    Plant in well-drained soil with average moisture. Will grow in infertile, slightly acidic soil, dry soil.


    Height
    6-8 Inches

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    Spread
    6-8 Inches


    Native Range
    From Southern Maine west to Wisconsin south to Arkansas and Georgia.

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    Native Trivia
    Most ornamental sedges grow best in moist or wet soil, but Pennsylvania Sedge is an exception to that rule. It thrives in dry soil and remains lush while binding the soil with its dense roots.


    USDA Hardiness Zone 4-8

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    "This is one of the most important cover plants for chipmunk's dry, shady neighborhood."

    Characteristics & Attributes

    Plan Sub Group
    Low Grasses
    Exposure
    Filtered Shade
    Shade
    Morning Sun / Afternoon Shade
    Sun
    Soil Moisture Preference
    Dry
    Average
    Attracts Wildlife
    Songbirds
    Mammals
    Bloom Time
    Early Spring
    Critter Resistance
    Deer Resistant
    Habitat Collection
    Dry Shade
    Songbird
    Foliage Color
    Green
    Red-Purple
    Uses
    Ground cover
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