Appalachian Sedge (Carex appalachica)

Appalachian Sedge (Carex appalachica) is a compact, semi-evergreen sedge native to the Appalachian Mountains, including Georgia. Dense, soft-textured, mid-green foliage forms weeping, mounding tufts. Wispy green flower spikes rise above the foliage in late spring.

Grow in part sun to full shade and dry to average, well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant once established and can replace turf in shady, dry areas where there is no foot traffic.

Growing details

• Plant type: Semi-evergreen ornamental sedge
• Mature spread: 1.5–2 feet
• Spacing: Approximately 1.5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 3–7
• Light: Part sun to full shade
• Soil: Dry to average and well-drained
• Flowers: Wispy green spikes in late spring
• Foliage: Soft-textured, weeping, mid-green leaves
• Habit: Compact, mounding tufts

Care and garden use

This low-maintenance sedge does not tolerate foot traffic. Cut foliage to the ground and remove it in late winter.

Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, borders, woodland gardens, wildlife gardens, naturalized areas, containers, or as a turf alternative in untraveled shady areas. Pair with red columbine, foamflower, or white wood aster where growing conditions suit each plant.

Image credits: Daderot, Carex appalachica - Brooklyn Botanic Garden - Brooklyn, NY - DSC07920, CC0 1.0; (2) Photo by The Plantography Project, Appalachian sedge (Carex apalachica). Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.