Carex cherokeensis is a warm season native sedge that forms soft, fountain like clumps of medium green foliage. Its adaptability, clumping habit, and soil stabilization benefits make it a valuable low maintenance ground layer.
Height & Spread: 12 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Spring
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, rich soils; tolerates periodic flooding
Watering Needs: Moderate; thrives with regular moisture
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This species is native to the southeastern and south central United States, particularly in moist woodlands, floodplains, and prairies.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Supports caterpillars of native skippers such as Delaware Skipper and Southern Broken Dash.
Birds
- Seeds are consumed by songbirds including sparrows and finches; foliage offers nesting material and shelter for ground nesting species.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart for effective soil coverage and to allow clumps to develop naturally over time.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for native plant meadows, swales, woodland borders, and rain gardens. Works well in both restoration and ornamental plantings requiring soil stability and habitat value.
Companion Plants
- Rudbeckia fulgida (Black Eyed Susan) - Adds bright, upright blooms that contrast with the arching habit of Carex.
- Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Aromatic Aster) - Provides fall color and nectar in meadows or naturalized borders.
- Eutrochium fistulosum (Joe Pye Weed) - Adds height and pollinator support in moist to wet areas alongside Carex.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Offers texture and aroma with lavender blooms that attract bees and butterflies.
- Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed) - Complements Carex in rain gardens while supporting Monarch butterflies.