Crested Sedge Picture

A remarkably pretty, dainty-looking sedge of moist areas and wetlands. Produces unremarkable little green-yellow flowering spikes in May-June which turn to interesting groups of seeds which look somewhat like little clusters of spiky balls and persist into the fall. Leaves are slender and arch gracefully from a central cluster along a leafy stem. Tolerates poorly-drained soil and clay, but tends to prefer consistent moisture, especially when grown in full sun conditions-can even be grown in very shallow standing water (less than 1"). As with all sedges, supports a startling variety of native wildlife, from skipper larvae to moths to various types of grasshoppers, plant hoppers, and butterflies, to small native mammals, and a number of wetland birds including ducks and seed-eating songbirds (to name a few). According to dung remains found from the ice age, this species was probably once food for native mammoths, which, although not practically useful while planning a modern garden, is fascinating and gives a thorough sense of the ecological importance of wetland sedges such as this one. Spreads slowly by rhizomes to form clumps. An excellent little sedge for wet areas!

Moist to Wet
Sun To Part Shade
1-3' tall
Plant Hardiness Zones: 2b-7b
Perennial
Deer Resistant

Native Range: NH south through NC, west to KS and north to ND. Also present in AL. Native to Canada in SK, MB, ON, QC. Rare in NH, DE, MD, VA, AL, and KS. Considered extirpated in NC.

Germination - Easy: Cold Stratify 8 weeks

Crested Sedge 3.5 inch pot $12.75
Crested Sedge Seed Packet $5.00

Review or Finalize Your Order

Crested Sedge Picture