Summary
Carex woodii, or Wood’s sedge, is an exceptional species that exemplifies the ornamental value and versatility of sedges in garden settings. Wood’s sedge is similar to the popular Carex pensylvanica as they both possess a low-growing slow-spreading habit. While these two sedges can occupy similar landscape niches, C. woodii is superior to C. pensylvanica from both garden utility and ornamental standpoints. Wood’s sedge forms a denser mat of foliage than C. pensylvanica and is better at suppressing weeds. The fine-textured foliage of Wood’s sedge emerges an attractive blue-green hue in spring before changing to green as temperatures increase in late spring and summer. As a bonus, from April through early May, carpets of straw-colored flowers create an eye-catching display and provide the perfect complement to other spring wildflowers.
Wood’s Sedge Growing Conditions and Care
Wood’s sedge can be found in forests in the midwestern and eastern United States. As might be expected from a woodland plant, it performed best in the trial in shade; however, this species is also exceptionally adaptable to full sun. Carex woodii was a top performer in the mowing evaluation, developing an attractive dense mat, and could be a good lawn substitute.
Details
- Rating
4.7/4.4 (Shade/Sun) Top Performer - Common Name
Wood’s sedge - Size
14” x 46” - Growth habit
spreading - Texture
fine - Winter foliage
semi-evergreen - Mowing rating
4.9/4.9 (Shade/Sun)