Carex humilis
Carex humilis · Cyperaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant carex humilis: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Cyperaceae (Sedges)
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- April to June
- Mature size
- 10 to 30 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Europe, mountains and temperate regions
- Soil type
- Well-drained, calcareous, dry to moderately moist
Care
Light exposure
Carex humilis prefers full sun or light dappled shade. It adapts well to sunny, airy locations. Avoid dense shade which would slow down its growth.
Soil and drainage
This sedge appreciates well-drained, calcareous or neutral soils. It tolerates dry and poor soils, typical of alpine meadows. Excess stagnant moisture can be harmful, especially in winter.
Watering
In its natural habitat, Carex humilis thrives with the regular rainfall of mountain regions. Once established, it requires little watering. Water moderately during prolonged dry periods, especially in the first year.
Fertilising
This plant is undemanding and needs only very moderate fertiliser. A light compost application in spring is more than sufficient. Poor calcareous soils suit it naturally.
Pruning and maintenance
Clean up dried foliage in early spring before new growth appears. No structural pruning necessary. Simply remove dead leaves to maintain the clump's appearance.
Diseases and pests
Carex humilis is generally robust and rarely affected by diseases. Stagnant moisture can promote rot. Check drainage and aerate the clumps if you notice any deterioration.
Did you know?
Carex humilis, the low sedge, is a precious alpine plant of high-altitude calcareous meadows. Its Latin name 'humilis' literally means 'humble' or 'low', referring to its characteristically small stature. It plays an important ecological role in mountain meadows where it helps stabilise soils and serves as food for alpine herbivores.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Blue sedgeCarex panicea
- Spring sedgeCarex caryophyllea
- Pendulous sedgeCarex pendula
- Bird's-foot SedgeCarex ornithopoda
- Gray's sedgeCarex grayi
- Strict sedgeCarex stricta
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.