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Carex grayi

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Kemper Code:  J660

Common Name: gray sedge
Zone: 5 to 9
Plant Type: Rush or Sedge
Family: Cyperaceae
Missouri Native: Yes
Native Range: Eastern North America
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Spread: 1.5 to 2 feet
Bloom Time: May - October  
Bloom Color: Green
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Wet
Maintenance: Low


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Plant Culture and Characteristics

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  Uses:       Wildlife:   Flowers:   Leaves:   Fruit:
Hedge Suitable as annual Attracts birds Has showy flowers Leaves colorful Has showy fruit
Shade tree Culinary herb Attracts Has fragrant flowers Leaves fragrant Fruit edible
Street tree Vegetable   hummingbirds Flowers not showy Good fall color   Other:
Flowering tree Water garden plant Attracts Good cut flower Evergreen Winter interest
Gr. cover (<1') Will naturalize   butterflies Good dried flower     Thorns or spines

General Culture:

Gray sedge grows best in moist fertile soil in full sun, but will tolerate light shade. It thrives at or near water. Propagation is through seeding in the fall and division in the spring. Under suitable conditions, this sedge may self-seed.

Noteworthy Characteristics:

The greenish yellow to brown seed heads of this sedge look like spiked clubs and are attractive in both fresh and dried flower arrangements. The fruits remain on the plant in winter, adding an interesting accent when the shadows reflect on snow. The grass-like leaves, which are up to 1/2" wide, are semi-evergreen.

Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.

There are no known pests. Gray sedge does not do well in dry soil and in hot climates may not reach full height.

Uses:

Gray sedge is best when used in large groups around pools and ponds. It also makes an interesting accent plant when grown near water gardens or even in containers.

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