An adaptable, fine sedge of wet areas, Sartwell's Sedge produces insignificant green flowers in May, then goes to seed in June and July, producing small, spiky seedheads. Tolerates occasional flooding, calcareous soil, sand, wet ditches, and marshy conditions, and is even sometimes found growing in shallow standing water. Unusually for a sedge, Sartwell's Sedge tends to produce loose, running colonies rather than clumps, which makes it an unusual, attractive filler for wet areas. Overall, a very attractive but often overlooked species which creates rich cover, nesting habitat, and food for wetland bird species and wildlife.
1-4 foot tall
Plant Hardiness Zones: 2b-6b
Perennial
Deer Resistant
Native Range: NY south through MD westward to CO, WY, up to the northern border from NY west through IN. Native to Canada in BC, AB, SK, MB, ON, QC. Rare in NY, CO, and WY. Considered extirpated in PA and MD.
Germination - Easy: Cold stratify 8 weeks.