Are sedges annuals or perennials?
Like grasses, sedges are annuals or perennials, nonwoody, with linear, parallel-veined leaves whose lower portions sheath the stems. The flowers are spikes: the tiny flower lacks petals and sepals but is enclosed in scales (tiny bracts).
What are the characteristics of sedges?
The flowers are spikes: the tiny flower lacks petals and sepals but is enclosed in scales (tiny bracts). The spikes can be in arranged in spikes, racemes, panicles, or umbels. Key features of sedges: Stems are very often triangular in cross-section and are solid, not hollow.
How many types of sedge plants are there?
There are over 100 species of sedge plants. What is sedge? These grass-like plants are drought tolerant, easy to grow and practically maintenance free. There are many types of sedge to choose from, but native sedge plants offer the opportunity to replenish and renew natural landscapes while giving the gardener a hardy plant made for the region.
Do sedge plants like sun or shade?
The majority of sedge types grow in either sun or shade. Cool zones should plant in sun while warmer locations will find better production if the plants are situated in slightly shady parts of the garden. Additionally, some varieties are xeric or require dry locations, while others are hydric and need to be constantly moist.
Does sedge grass have flowers?
When you look at a grass or sedge, what you see are the stems, leaves, and flowers. And in the case of this explanation, the stems are referred to as culms.
Do sedges bloom?
Some sedges call more attention to themselves, while others serve as supporters. Sedges green-up and bloom early, which is in contrast to many taller prairie grasses that take the full season to mature. Think of sedges as an early-season grass that looks good all summer!
What is a sedge flower?
Normally sedges have triangular, solid stems, ranks of three spiralling leaves (or form of leaf) and flowers on spikes, whereas grasses have cylindrical, usually hollow stems with nodes (swollen joints), alternate leaves (appearing in pairs) and flowers.
Do sedges have leaves?
Like grasses, sedges are annuals or perennials, nonwoody, with linear, parallel-veined leaves whose lower portions sheath the stems. The flowers are spikes: the tiny flower lacks petals and sepals but is enclosed in scales (tiny bracts).
How can you tell the difference between grass and sedge?
The stems of grasses are hollow and either round or flat with swollen nodes or joints along the stems. Their leaf blades are flat and their leaf sheaths are open. The stems of sedges, on the other hand, are generally solid and triangular (note the mnemonic “Sedges have edges”).
How can you tell a sedge from a lawn?
'Sedges have edges, rushes are round, grasses have knees that bend to the ground. ' The 'knees' of grasses are joint-like nodes found along round, hollow stems. The stems of sedges and rushes are solid; in cross-section the stems of rushes are round, while those of sedges are triangular and so have edges.
What does a sedge look like?
Sedges usually have triangular stems with leaves arranged in groups of three and are similar to grasses in many attributes. Sedge species may be found in a wide range of conditions, ranging from very wet to dry and in many soil types.
What are the characteristics of sedges?
Sedges are perennial plants that are commonly found in shallow water or moist soils and can reach 4 feet in height. They resemble grasses and often grow in thick clusters.
What is a true sedge?
True Sedges Overview Carex is a vast genus, containing over 2000 deciduous and evergreen, rhizomatous, perennial grass species commonly known as True Sedges, often just Sedge, but this name is shared with other plants in the family Cyperaceae.
What is sedge good for?
Leading garden designers and horticulturists have discovered that sedges fulfill a number of key roles in the landscape and fix problems other plants struggle to solve. They work in dry shade or wet soil, they resist deer browsing, they don't need spraying, and they sustain wildlife and control erosion.
What kind of plant is a sedge?
There are so many different kinds of "sedges" that both a family of plants (Cyperaceae) and a genus (Carex, the "true" sedges) use this term as a common name. The true sedges are thus related to a plant more popular than any of them: Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus), a mainstay of many a water garden.
Do you cut back sedge grass?
Sedges resent being cut back too hard, so if the foliage lasts through the year untattered, just leave it alone. If the older foliage looks messy, or the tips have been burned by winter cold, trim the sedge back modestly, by no more than a third at most, in March or April.
Are sedges perennials?
Sedges are grasslike plants best described as green and tufty. They may be the dullest-looking perennials in the landscape. They are also the hottest. Leading garden designers and horticulturists have discovered that sedges fulfill a number of key roles in the landscape and fix problems other plants struggle to solve.
What kind of plant is a sedge?
There are so many different kinds of "sedges" that both a family of plants (Cyperaceae) and a genus (Carex, the "true" sedges) use this term as a common name. The true sedges are thus related to a plant more popular than any of them: Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus), a mainstay of many a water garden.
How do sedges spread?
It spreads by rhizomes, but not densely, to form a low, open sod 8 to 14 inches tall. Exceptionally durable and flexible, Pennsylvania sedge flourishes in dry shade and in soil that is moist and rich in organic matter.
What are the features of sedges?
Key features of sedges: Stems are very often triangular in cross-section and are solid, not hollow. Leaves are usually 3-ranked (they come out on 3 sides of the stem) (while true grasses are 2-ranked, opposite).
Why are sedges important?
Sedges are very important for stabilizing soils in wetlands and stream and lake margins. Their fruits provide food for many kinds of waterfowl and other animals. Dense stands provide important habitat. One species, sawgrass, is the dominant plant in the Florida Everglades.
How many species of sedges are there in the world?
Globally, there are about 4,000 species in the sedge family. In Missouri, more than 60 of our sedges are Species of Conservation Concern; several of them are listed as critically imperiled. Considering the family’s very large size, sedges have a low direct economic importance for humans.
What are sedges used for?
Some sedges are used as ornamentals. Ancient Egyptians used one species to make papyrus paper, and its buoyant stems to make boats. The infant Moses’s basket may have been woven from sedges. Parts of some species are edible. Chinese water chestnuts are the corms (rootstocks) of one type of sedge.
What are the two groups of plants in Missouri?
A very simple way of thinking about the green world is to divide the vascular plants into two groups: woody and nonwoody (or herbaceous). But this is an artificial division; many plant families include some species that are woody and some that are not.
Where can I find sedges in Missouri?
Sedges are usually found in wet habitats . Missouri has more than 200 species in the sedge family. Distinguishing between these grasslike plants can be difficult even for botanists, but it’s not hard to learn some basics about this common group.
How many petals does a rush plant have?
Similar species: Plants in the rush family typically have basal leaves; round, solid stems; and flowers with 3 sepals and 3 sepal-like petals. Fruits are many-seeded capsules that split open lengthwise.
How to identify sedges?
Vegetative Features of Sedges. The first and easiest way to spot a sedge is by looking at its stem. Sedge stems are solid, and unlike grasses, they don’t have nodes or joints. Sedge stems are triangular in cross-section, three sided, especially towards the base of the stem. In general they are tough and wiry.
What is a sedge family?
I frequently get asked to illustrate plants which many see as a little dull, and one of these families is the sedges (Cyperaceae). Sedges, however, are far from dull but are elegant and beautiful plants. Perhaps all it takes to make people love them is a little information on their anatomy ...
What sedges grow in dense tussocks?
Some will grow in dense tussocks, like the Greater tussock sedge Carex paniculata . Other tussocky sedges include the Schoenus and Trichophorum species. Sedge Greater tussock sedge Carex paniculata showing its tussocky growth habit.
What is the shape of a sedge stem?
Sedge stem of the Greater tussock sedge Carex paniculata, showing it’s triangular shape.
Where are sedge ligules fused?
Unlike grasses, sedge ligules are fused to the base of the leaf blade. Below is a range of sedge ligules. As with grasses, these can be used to identify different species. Variety of different ligules seen in different species of Sedge.
How many stamens does a male flower have?
Male flowers have three stamens and a glume. In male spikelets, the lower male flowers may be sterile and have larger glumes.
Do sedges have flowers?
The flowers and fruits of sedges are markedly different to those of grasses. They take a little getting used to. As with many areas of botany, they have nomenclature specific to their family.
What is Sedge?
At first glance, one might assume sedges are grasses. They are not and are held in the genus Carex. Sedges span both native varieties and hybridized versions. They are useful in moist areas, such as around ponds, but there are also types of sedge that thrive in dry regions. Both ornamental and native sedge plants produce tiny seeds which feed some bird species, and many animals use the foliage to line and create nests.
What is sedge grass?
What is sedge? These grass-like plants are drought tolerant, easy to grow and practically maintenance free. There are many types of sedge to choose from, but native sedge plants offer the opportunity to replenish and renew natural landscapes while giving the gardener a hardy plant made for the region. Whichever species you opt for, growing sedge ...
Can sedge be grown in shade?
It is best to source native varieties through a grower, as some of these plants are endangered and harvesting from the wild is prohibited. The majority of sedge types grow in either sun or shade. Cool zones should plant in sun while warmer locations will find better production if the plants are situated in slightly shady parts of the garden.
Can you grow sedge from seed?
Most nurseries have some varieties of sedge on hand. If you are looking for a particular species, you may need to order seed or starts. Seeded plants will take a couple of seasons to get to useable size but they grow as easily as grass seed. It is best to source native varieties through a grower, as some of these plants are endangered and harvesting from the wild is prohibited.
Do sedges have rhizomes?
Sedge plants have the characteristic strappy leaves similar to many grasses, and just like grass, they reproduce from seed and rhizomes.
Do sedges need fertilizer?
They rarely need fertilizer, the plants can be easily moved and they grow rapidly and can even be used as a turf. Sedge plants take to occasional mowing in lawn situations and have the advantage of requiring little further attention, unlike traditional turf grass, which needs plenty of added nitrogen and may get weedy.
Do sedges need moist soil?
Additionally, some varieties are xeric or require dry locations, while others are hydric and need to be constantly moist. Sedges that are mesic have the broadest tolerance of both dry and moist conditions. Growing sedge plants in mesic soil sets the odds for you on big beautiful plants in almost any region.
Why are sedges so popular in winter?
Because the foliage is more or less evergreen, especially in mild climates, sedges provide much-needed winter interest where not covered by snow. Greenish sedge flowers are seldom large or striking individually, but several of them cluster in showy spikes or dense heads to put on quite a display, such as black sedge.
What is the difference between sedges and rushes?
Look more closely, however, and you'll notice the differences. Rushes have rounded leaves like tall cylinders; grasses usually have hollow stems with conspicuous sheaths here the leaves meet the stems, also called nodes; and sedges have solid, conspicuously triangular stems that lack nodes. The name Carex is derived from keiro, Greek ...
How tall do leatherleaf sedges grow?
With more than 2,000 separate species and multiple selections and cultivars, sedges range in height from creeping or prostrate to 4 feet tall or more. Whether in sun or shade, wet or dry, or rocky or fertile soils, sedges adapt to most conditions.
How to increase sedges?
Increase sedges by dividing the plants in early spring. Usually small plants or plugs are available in local nurseries and garden centers for residential plants. Seed germination may be spotty and generally is only used on a large scale. Maintenance is confined to late spring, after frost is likely.
Where are tussock sedges native?
Tussock sedge (C. stricta): Native in sunny to partly shaded Northeastern wetlands. Dense tussocks of slender, glaucous leaves. Mass or use as groundcover. 3 feet tall. Zones 3–8.
Where does Carex come from?
The name Carex is derived from keiro, Greek for "to cut," a reference to the sharp leaf edges that can cut your hand. More than 2,000 Carex species grow wild in numerous habitats across the world, particularly in New Zealand, Japan, and the United States.
Can sedges be used as groundcover?
Sedges are suitable for almost any place you need to furnish. Some species make excellent groundcover plants. Adaptable, easy-care sedges have earned their place in residential gardens. No longer considered substitutes for ubiquitous ornamental grasses, they are appreciated now for understated interest and contrast to showier companions.
What are sedges in the garden?
There are so many different kinds of " sedges " that both a family of plants (Cyperaceae) and a genus ( Carex, the "true" sedges) use this term as a common name. The true sedges are thus related to a plant more popular than any of them: Papyrus ( Cyperus papyrus ), a mainstay of many a water garden. There are over 2,000 types of Carex, alone. Some are weedy, but others have ornamental value and are popular with gardeners in North America. Even though they do flower (and, in some cases, a subtly attractive seed head succeeds the blooms), they are grown mainly as foliage plants .
What color is a sedge?
The overall effect of this variegated sedge with arching foliage is golden (thus its cultivar name), even though neither of the two colors involved is gold. Green margins on the leaf set off an interior of creamy yellow, giving the impression of gold. Install several as a ground cover to brighten an area in partial shade. This sedge prefers wet soil, where it will spread a bit via rhizomes, but it will survive in an area with just average amounts of moisture, too.
What is the difference between sedge and carex?
But stems of the true grasses are typically hollow, and their shape is either flat or rounded. Sedge stems, by contrast, are solid, and they are triangular in shape. If you wish to put this identification aid to a touch test, be sure to feel the stem (the part of the plant closest to the ground), not the leaf. Sedge plants are generally great plants for areas with wet soil. Here are 10 of the most popular true sedge species.
What is the best sedge for water garden?
This plant produces clumps of soft foliage that invites a touch from the human hand. Its love of moist soils makes it a great candidate for your water garden.
What is a Japanese sedge?
This cultivar of Japanese sedge is another that sports two-toned leaves. It produces a dense clump, spreads via rhizomes, and likes wet soil. In spring it bears coppery-brown flowers, but they are insignificant compared to the ornamental value of the foliage. While the plant is grown for its leaves, not its flowers, the latter do attract bees and butterflies. Partial shade is ideal for it: With too much sun, the leaves may bleach out, but with total shade, the plant will underperform.
Is leatherleaf sedge the same as spark plug?
The ornamental value of leatherleaf sedge is provided by the coppery color of its leaves. Furthermore, it forms dense clumps, whereas 'Spark Plug' is more loosely put together. The leaves of the leatherleaf also have a finer texture.
Is Carex a perennial?
Carex species are perennials. They are easily confused by beginners with ornamental grasses because their foliage is very grass-like. But stems of the true grasses are typically hollow, and their shape is either flat or rounded. Sedge stems, by contrast, are solid, and they are triangular in shape.
What is a perennial sedge?
Perennial forms have a thick rootstock or an erect to horizontal underground rhizome usually with shortened internodes. Sedges usually have triangular stems with leaves arranged in groups of three and are similar to grasses in many attributes.
What is a sedge in Florida?
Identification of Sedge and Sedge-Like Weeds in Florida Citrus. 1. Sedges are annual or mostly perennial grass-like plants with aerial flower-bearing stems. In annual forms, the stem is solitary to mostly several with basal leaves.
What is the color of the seed head on a sage?
Seed head: short subtending leaf-like bracts, numerous, flattened, red to purple brown spikelets clustered at the end of the stalk on a few to several branches
What is a seed head?
Seed head: numerous, flattened, heads of spikelets, subtended by a few to several leaf-like bracts
How big is a seed head?
Seed head: subtended by a few leaf-like bracts, usually one, occasionally 2 or 3 heads, initially pale green and often turning brown at maturity, globe-shaped and 1/4 inch in diameter. Seed: oval, flat in cross section (1/16 inch long) Propagated by: seeds and rhizomes.
What is the stem of a sage?
Stem: dark green, arising from purple rhizomes, with 3 subtending leaves on the end of the flower stalk
How wide is a sycamore flower?
Flower: 1/8 inch wide, two bright blue and one pale blue petals, subtended by a boat-shaped bract that has the basal margins united; underground branches have flowers that do not open and produce fruit
What family is sedge in?
Cyperaceae. Plants of the Sedge Family. "Sedges have edges. Rushes are round. Grasses are hollow. What have you found?". This common rhyme can help you remember the key differences between the Sedge, Rush, and Grass families. Most sedges have triangular stems ("edges"), except for Scripus, which has round stems.
How many stamens does a sedge have?
Sedges typically have small flowers with the sepals or petals completely absent or reduced to scales, bristles, or hairs. There are typically 3 stamens (sometimes 6 or 1). The ovary is positioned superior and consists of 2 or 3 united carpels, aborting all but one to form a single chamber.
Why are sedges important to a garden?
Grasses and sedges are often overlooked in garden planning but they make a wonderful addition to any garden because aesthetically, they provide great texture, color, and height to gardens in every season. In addition to adding beauty to your landscape, native grass and sedges provide resources to a wide variety of birds, insects, ...
What is the best sedge for a garden?
Appalachian sedge, or Carex appalachica, is a perennial sedge that grows in small 12 inch green tufts. Carex appalachica is well-loved for its adaptability and its ability to grow in a wide range of conditions – including the shade. Like most sedges, the Appalachian sedge provides great cover for insects. Its tiny flowers aren’t showy, but provide nectar to insects and seeds for native birds. “I love the addition of this small, graceful sedge to many types of gardens,” says Fogel. “It can serve as an edger along the front of a formal bed, or fill in gaps between taller plants throughout a more natural garden.” You can see this sedge along Lake Sydnor where it helps prevent erosion and provides weed control by acting as a ground cover under taller plants.
What is Prairie Dropseed?
Prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) is a fine-textured ornamental bunchgrass that can be found at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden outside of the Conservatory and on the banks of Sydnor Lake. “The maximum height of 2-3 feet of prairie dropseed makes it an excellent grass for smaller gardens,” says Fogel. Bright green for the spring and summer, it turns golden orange in the fall before fading to bronze for the winter. Delicate clusters of small, fluffy pink flowers grace the late summer garden. So four seasons of color, from just grass! Plus, many species of beneficial insects and birds use this grass for food and shelter. Like many kinds of grass, prairie dropseed has a fibrous root system, meaning it helps to prevent erosion by firmly anchoring the plant into the ground while holding the surrounding topsoil in place.
How to identify sedge plants?
If you are a pro, you can identify the plants by the absence of ligules and aruricles. For most of us, these characteristics mean little and all we know is a different type of plant is crowding out our spectacular turf grass in irregular patches with rough, stiff blades and prolific seed heads.
How many varieties of sedge are there?
The first step is identification, as many types of sedge weed control are specific and there are more than 12 varieties of problem sedge. These are some of the more common found in lawns: Yellow Nut Sedge ( Cyperus esculentus) Purple Nut Sedge ( Cyperus rotundus)
What herbicides are used to kill sedge weeds?
There are no broad-spectrum herbicides recommended for controlling sedge weeds. Yellow and purple sedge control is available in herbicides recommended for crops. The majority of other sedge plants need to be identified and the specific management program applied for the variety of sedge species.
What is the difference between yellow nutsedge and purple sedge?
Yellow nutsedge has a yellow seed head, is common in northern zones, and has excellent cold tolerance. Purple sedge has purple seed heads and dark green foliage. These are the most common sedge plants but for identification of others, you may have to take a specimen to your county extension or master gardener’s clinic.
Where do sedge weeds grow?
Sedge lawn weeds favor moist areas and are often naturally established in marshy areas or run-off zones. Controlling sedge weeds begins with an examination of your irrigation system and fixing low areas where moisture pools.
Can you spray sedge weeds?
Pre-emergence herbicides have little effect for controlling sedge weeds. Spot application of the appropriate herbicide can be effective or broad range spraying for extreme sedge lawn weeds. As with any herbicide application, read the directions and follow the safety precautions recommended by the manufacturer.
