Thin-spiked wood-sedge
Carex strigosa · Cyperaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant thin-spiked wood-sedge: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, finely linear and slender
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April-June)
- Mature size
- 16–24 inches tall, 12–16 inches wide
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to –4 °F
- Origin
- Continental and central Europe
- Soil
- Humus-rich, well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral
- Exposure
- Part shade to partial shade
Care
Exposure
Lean sedge thrives in part shade to partial shade conditions, ideal beneath tree canopy or at the woodland edge. It tolerates full sun in cool, moist climates, but prefers dappled light locations. Avoid overly hot, dry exposures in full midday sun.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, without waterlogging. During dry periods, water moderately to prevent complete drying out. Once established, the plant will tolerate fluctuations in moisture better, but appreciates a cool, slightly moist environment.
Soil
Choose soil rich in humus, well-structured and well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral in nature. Amend the planting area with compost or leaf mold. An organic mulch layer on the surface will help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
Pruning and cutting
Remove any dry or damaged foliage in late winter, before spring growth resumes. Eliminate dead leaves at the base to aerate the clump and encourage new shoots to emerge. Light pruning in autumn can help maintain an elegant silhouette.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced organic fertilizer in spring at low strength. Natural decomposition of mulch and organic amendments are usually sufficient for this plant's modest nutrient needs. Avoid excess nitrogen, which may slow growth.
Health and diseases
Lean sedge is very robust and rarely susceptible to disease. Watch for rust or rot if humidity is excessive and air circulation poor. Good drainage and adequate air circulation prevent most fungal problems.
Did you know?
Carex species are among the most diverse plants in the plant kingdom, with over 2,000 species identified. The name "Carex" comes from the Latin word meaning "decay" or "rot," referring to its natural habitat in marshy areas. Lean sedge, relatively understated, has long been cherished by botanical gardeners for the exquisite fineness of its foliage and its ability to create subtle textures in shade gardens.
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.