Carex pensylvanica

Pennsylvania Sedge

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

Spread 6-8 Inches

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

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

"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