Carex pensylvanica is a fine textured native sedge that thrives in dry to moderately moist woodland landscapes. Often used as a low maintenance lawn alternative, key component in native ground layer restoration.
Height & Spread: 6 - 12 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Dry to moist, well drained soils; prefers sandy or loamy substrates
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This species is native to eastern North America and is commonly found in open woodlands, oak savannas, and forest edges.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Supports the caterpillars of skipper species such as Tawny Edged Skipper, Little Glassywing, and Crossline Skipper.
Birds
- Seeds are consumed by ground foraging songbirds such as Eastern Towhees and Dark Eyed Juncos, while the dense foliage provides nesting cover.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to create a soft, meadow like ground cover or to mimic woodland understory conditions.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for native plant lawns, woodland restorations, shady slopes, or between stepping stones where turfgrass would struggle.
Companion Plants
- Maianthemum racemosum (False Solomons Seal) - Offers arching stems and frothy spring flowers in the same woodland conditions.
- Claytonia virginica (Spring Beauty) - Provides ephemeral blooms and naturalizes with Carex in woodland gardens.
- Asarum canadense (Wild Ginger) - Complements Carex with broad, low foliage and early bloom.
- Podophyllum peltatum (Mayapple) - Offers bold foliage and naturalistic form in dappled shade.
- Geranium maculatum (Wild Geranium) - Adds seasonal color and pollinator interest to shaded plantings.