Carex appalachica

Sizes available: HPP 1 quart

Basics: zones 3-8, 8-12" x 12", part to full shade, but with consistent moisture can do well in a sunnier spot, tiny and subtle green flower in mid-spring, in shade it is very drought tolerant, wants good drainage

Common names: Appalachian Sedge

Family: Cyperaceae

Origin/Distribution: eastern North America, native to Maine

Habitat: dry, temperate forest - both deciduous and mixed deciduous/evergreen, rocky, open woods, rock outcrops, woodland slopes, sometimes associated with hemlocks and in high, dry areas with maple, oak or beech

More: Larval host for various skipper and satyr butterfly species. Sedges are excellent cover and habitat for numerous invertebrates, small mammals and ground-nesting birds. C. appalachia is deer, rabbit, and juglone resistant. It has a formal look and is good for ground cover under shrubs and deciduous trees. Cut back in late winter prior to the onset of new growth.

Photo credits: Wikimedia Commons