Carex, Genus, cherokeensis, Species,
- Genus & species
cherokee sedge
Southeastern United States, from Virginia south to Florida and west to Texas, in open woodlands and meadows
Overview
Carex cherokeensis is Cherokee sedge, a leading evergreen native sedge for southern US gardens, growing 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall and 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) wide. Named for the Cherokee people. Bright green narrow arching evergreen leaves with delicate texture form a year-round mound. Ornamental dangling catkin-like spikelets in early spring (March-April) add a soft texture. The evergreen habit (retaining green foliage year-round) suits the species to the South, where northern deciduous sedges look tattered in winter. Any light condition: sun to full shade. Any soil type. Drought-tolerant once established. The southeastern US native range (zones 6-10) means strong heat and humidity tolerance. The clumping habit stays tidy. A native lawn alternative for the southern US; mass plant for a narrow-leaved evergreen ground cover. Deer avoid sedge foliage.
Native Range
Carex cherokeensis is native to the southeastern United States, from Virginia south to Florida and west to Texas.Suggested Uses
Used as a southern native lawn alternative, evergreen shade ground cover, border edging, and containers of 3 gallons (11 liters). A leading evergreen native sedge for the South. Mass plant for a narrow-leaved year-round carpet.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 1'6"
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Bloom Information
Spikelets in March and April. The evergreen bright green foliage is the year-round display.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Green to tan; in dangling catkin-like spikeletsFoliage Description
Bright green; narrow arching; evergreenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Sited in any light. Any soil. Drought-tolerant. Evergreen year-round. Hardy zones 6-10. Cleaned up in late winter before new growth.Pruning
Tattered leaves are cleaned up in late winter before new spring growth and spikelets.Pruning Schedule
Prune: February
early spring
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons
