Appalachian Sedge

Appalachian Sedge (Carex appalachica) is native to the dry forests of its namesake mountain range in eastern North America, north to the New England region. It thrives alongside other woodland plants, particularly on dry, well-drained slopes. It performs best in partial to full shade and well-drained soil, and is drought tolerant, but may need supplemental watering if planted in full sun. It will spready slowly by rhizomes, and it can help stabilize soil.

Low-growing Appalachian Sedge is very popular for low-growing naturalized plantings, and it works well in place of turfgrass and ornamental grasses, along walkways, or in tricky parts of your garden where shade and dry soil deter other plants or grasses from flourishing. It can be used as a low-growing lawn alternative, but for low-traffic areas. Its appearance is similar to Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica), though Appalachian Sedge grows in clumps. Trim in early- to mid-spring, and it’ll thrive throughout the growing season.