Description

Carex grayi is a very ornamental grass typically found growing along wetland margins. It is clump forming and can reach a height of up to 3". The grassy leaves leaves arch downwards and create an open form. Their color will vary from light green in full sun, to darker greens with more shade. The most noteworthy characteristic of this sedge are its medieval mass-like seed heads. These appear in summer as pale-green terminal clusters, will turn brown as they ripen, and persist well into winter.

Cultivation

Gray's sedge is a thirsty plant, but easy to grow in the right environment. It likes rich, wet, loamy soils in full sun to part-shade. Its water requirements will be higher in full sun, but those conditions will also produce a showier specimen. It is tolerant of occasional and seasonal flooding. It is best suited for use around ponds, streams, or other water features. Flowering will vary from May to August. Zones 4-8

Propagation

Propagate from seed in fall, or by clump division in early spring.

Additional Notes

In the right place, Gray's sedge will be a very ornamental plant with year round visual interest. The seed-topped stems are ideal for use as cut flowers, or in dried flower arrangements. The seeds are a food source for many bird species.