Carex crinita
fringed sedge
Eastern North America — from Newfoundland south to Florida and west to Minnesota, in swamps, streambanks, and wet meadows
Deer Resistant
Native to North America
Overview
Carex crinita is fringed sedge — a tall vigorous native wet-soil sedge growing 24–48 inches (60–120 cm) tall and 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) wide. The species name 'crinita' means 'long-haired' or 'fringed', describing the long-awned perigynia that create the fringed, hairy appearance of the seed heads. Long drooping catkin-like spikelets 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) hang gracefully from arching stems — the most ornamental seed display of any native wet-soil sedge. The drooping spikelets sway in breeze, adding movement. Wide medium green arching leaves create a substantial clump. Thrives in wet to waterlogged conditions — swamps, streambanks, pond margins, and rain gardens. Tolerates standing water. One of the tallest and most vigorous native sedges. Clumping habit. Hardy to zone 3. Deer avoid sedge foliage.
Native Range
Carex crinita is native to eastern North America — from Newfoundland south to Florida and west to Minnesota.Suggested Uses
Used in rain gardens, streambanks, pond margins, wet meadows, and bioswales. The most ornamental wet-soil native sedge. The drooping spikelets add movement and grace to wet-site plantings.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 4'
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Reaches mature size in approximately 2 years
Colors
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Green aging to golden-brown, in long drooping catkin-like spikeletsFoliage Description
Medium green, wide, archingGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 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
Plant in partial shade to full sun. Wet to waterlogged soil. Tolerates standing water. Hardy to zone 3.Pruning
Cut to ground in early spring before new growth.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early spring