Sedges belong to the sedge family of plants. With around 2,000 species, these representatives are distributed almost all over the world. To name all species here would go beyond the scope. Therefore, here are the most important types of sedges with their characteristics.

Some sedge species prefer wet feet

Clumpy growing sedges

A large group is formed by the clumpy sedges. They should all be divided regularly so as not to get out of hand with their growth. Even a cut in the spring does not harm them.

Here is an excerpt of the best-known representatives of this group with their main characteristics:

  • Fox-red sedge/Carex buchananii: red-brown, fine leaves, tuft-like, overhanging growth
  • Morning star sedge/Carex gravi: robust, adaptable, likes moist soil
  • Mountain sedge/Carex montana: sulphur-yellow flowers, long-lived, bright golden-brown in autumn
  • Japanese sedge/Carex morrowii: evergreen, forms dense clumps

Sedges according to location requirements: prefer sunny or shady?

Some types of sedges prefer to grow in full sun, while the other types prefer to be in the shade. You should give a place in the sun to the mountain sedge, New Zealand sedge, golden edge sedge and the palm frond sedge, among others. The following feel better off in the shade:

  • Japan sedge
  • Bird's Foot Sedge
  • Mushroom sedge
  • Broadleaf sedge
  • giant sedge
  • Carpet Japan Sedge

Variegated sedges

The variegated sedges are impressive as solitaires. But they are also skilfully expressed in combination with other grasses and flowers. Here are a few nice specimens:

  • White variegated dwarf sedge
  • Gold Rim Sedge
  • Stiff Gold Sedge
  • Gold Rim Japan Sedge
  • White-edged Japan Sedge
  • Variegated bird's-foot sedge

Characteristics common to all species

Whether Japanese sedge, gold-rimmed sedge, broadleaf sedge, or… all blessings combine many characteristics. Among other things, all sedges form rhizomes as outlasting organs. They have triangular culms and less than 2 cm wide, smooth leaves at the base.

Furthermore, all sedge species have terminal inflorescences, spikelets and spikes as well as unisexual flowers (male and female flowers separate from each other). Achenes are always formed as fruits and the care of these grasses can be rated as problem-free.

tips

Some sedges are too big to grow in pots. However, species such as the white-colored dwarf sedge and the stiff gold sedge are ideal for planters.

Category:

Vegetable garden