Cherokee Sedge (Carex cherokeensis)

Cherokee Sedge (Carex cherokeensis) is an evergreen sedge native to southern and southeastern North America, including Georgia. It forms slow-spreading clumps of upright, deep green, grass-like foliage. Scaly white flowers in late spring develop into wheat-like seed clusters.

Grow in moist, well-drained soil. Partial sun is preferred, with full sun to full shade listed for this selection. It is drought tolerant once established and can be used as a turf alternative.

Growing details

• Plant type: Evergreen ornamental sedge
• Mature height: 1–2 feet
• Mature spread: 2–4 feet
• Spacing: Approximately 3 feet apart
• Listed hardiness: USDA zones 3–9
• Light: Full sun to full shade; partial sun preferred
• Soil: Moist and well-drained
• Flowers: Scaly white flowers in late spring, followed by wheat-like seed clusters
• Foliage: Upright, deep green leaves
• Habit: Slow-spreading clumps

Care and garden use

This low-maintenance sedge needs regular watering to support its preference for moist soil.

Use in borders and edging, groundcover plantings, naturalized areas, shade gardens, woodland gardens, wildlife gardens, or as a turf alternative. Near ponds or water gardens, choose moist, well-drained ground. Pair with New England aster, river oats, or foxglove beardtongue where growing conditions suit each plant.

Image credit: Mason Brock (Masebrock), Carex cherokeensis, marked as public domain; more details on Wikimedia Commons. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.