Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge)

One of the most widely specified native lawn alternatives available, Pennsylvania sedge combines genuine shade and drought tolerance with a rapid, rhizome-driven spread that forms a true mowable (or unmowed) groundcover in as little as one growing season.

Species Overview

Carex pensylvanica, commonly known as Pennsylvania Sedge, is a low-growing, clump-forming perennial native to eastern North America. This sedge forms soft, grassy mats, making it an excellent ground cover for shaded areas and dry woodland gardens. It grows to about 8 to 12 inches tall and features fine-textured, semi-evergreen foliage. Its creeping rhizomes allow it to spread gently, creating a natural, low-maintenance lawn alternative.

Application

• Native lawn alternative and groundcover for dry shade sites
• Woodland garden, slope, and rock garden plantings
• Erosion control on shaded slopes
• Wildlife habitat - provides forage and cover for a range of wildlife

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Part Shade to Full Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Well-drained, dry to moist, acidic soils; handles a wide range of site conditions
• Growth Rate: Rapid - quickly spreads into large colonies via rhizomes
• Plant Type: Graminoid
• Mature Height: 6 in.-1 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: White, Yellow; April-May
• Wetland Indicator Status: NI (No Indicator) - see flags
• Native Range: Eastern and central North America
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Salinity Tolerance: None
• Root Depth: Shallow (Under 12 in.)
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Flood Tolerance: Low - A dry-woodland groundcover sedge; not tolerant of standing water.
• Shade Tolerance: Tolerant
• Growth Habit: Spreading - rhizomatous, forms turf-like mats
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
• Pollinator Value: None significant - wind-pollinated