CAREX PLANTAGINEA / PLANTAIN-LEAVED SEDGE

CAREX PLANTAGINEA / PLANTAIN-LEAF SEDGE

A Native Grass-Like Plant with Broad, Low-Growing Foliage

Carex plantaginea, commonly known as Plantain-Leaf Sedge, is a native perennial sedge valued for its broad, dark green leaves that form dense, low-growing clumps. Thriving in partial to full shade with moist, well-drained soils, Plantain-Leaf Sedge adds texture, year-round interest, and ecological benefits to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized landscapes. Its slow, clumping habit makes it an excellent groundcover for forested or shaded areas.

Why Choose Plantain-Leaf Sedge?

Native & Wildlife Friendly: Provides habitat for small wildlife and supports beneficial insects.
Shade Tolerant: Thrives in woodland gardens and shaded landscapes.
Low Maintenance: Long-lived, drought-tolerant once established, and easy to grow.
Distinctive Foliage: Broad, textured leaves add visual interest and contrast in shade gardens.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Dark green, broad, basal leaves.
Flower/Seed Color: Subtle brown-green seed heads in late spring to early summer.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 6–12 inches tall and spreads 12–18 inches wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–8.
Sunlight: Prefers partial to full shade.
Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soils; tolerates loam, sandy, and slightly acidic soils.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 6–12 inches tall, 12–18 inches wide.
Growth Habit: Low, clump-forming perennial sedge.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8.
Flowering: Late spring with subtle seed heads.

Ideal Uses:

Woodland & Shade Gardens: Perfect for under trees or in shaded naturalized areas.
Groundcover & Edging: Forms dense, low-maintenance mats in shade gardens.
Naturalized Landscapes: Works well in woodland edges and native plantings.
Pollinator & Wildlife Gardens: Supports beneficial insects and small wildlife.

Plantain-Leaf Sedge is a graceful and ecologically valuable native perennial. Its broad foliage, shade tolerance, and low-maintenance habit make it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, naturalized landscapes, and low-maintenance groundcover plantings.