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Carex barrattii
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Back to trial Carex for the Mid-Atlantic Region

Trial Garden

Carex cherokeensis (Cherokee sedge)

4 Photos


Summary

Carex cherokeensis is a graceful, arching sedge that looks beautiful whether planted as a single specimen or in large masses. The lustrous dark-green foliage is the primary asset of Cherokee sedge, with peak attractiveness from early summer through early winter. The flowers and fruit of this species, while not overly spectacular or profuse, add interest for a prolonged season from late April through fall. The large size and nearly evergreen nature of Cherokee sedge provides cover for wildlife in the winter months. While most wildlife are a welcome addition to gardens, voles caused extensive damage to the roots and crowns of some C. cherokeensis plants. However, the damaged plants rarely succumbed and usually recovered well the next growing season. Yearly maintenance for this species is minimal, typically limited to an optional trim of browned leaf tips in early spring. A complete cutback in late winter or early spring is not recommended for C. cherokeensis because it is slow to resume vegetative growth. This species can be found throughout the southern United States in moist woodlands.


Details

  • Rating
    4.7/4.3 (Shade/Sun) Top Performer 
  • Common Name
    Cherokee sedge  
  • Size
    35” x 61” 
  • Growth habit
    clumping 
  • Texture
    medium 
  • Winter foliage
    semi-evergreen 
  • Mowing rating
    2.3/1.7 (shade/sun)