Carex pensylvanica 'W1 Strain'
Carex pensylvanica 'W1 Strain' is a low growing native sedge that forms soft flowing colonies of fine textured green foliage. Its graceful appearance and adaptability make it an excellent alternative to traditional turf in dry shade, woodland gardens, and naturalized landscapes where a relaxed woodland character is desired.
Height & Spread: 6 - 12 in x 12 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to shade
Soil Preference: Average to dry well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
Native to eastern and central North America where it occurs naturally in open woodlands, dry forests, and shaded slopes. It is valued for its ability to create attractive native groundcover communities while supporting local ecosystems.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- The seeds provide a food source for songbirds while the dense foliage offers cover and nesting material throughout the growing season.
Butterflies
- Serves as a host plant for several skipper butterflies whose caterpillars feed on sedges during their development.
Small Mammals
- Provides shelter and protective cover for small woodland animals and other beneficial wildlife.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart for quicker groundcover establishment or 18 - 24 in apart in naturalized plantings.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for woodland gardens, shaded borders, native plantings, and lawn replacement areas where its soft texture can spread naturally over time.
Companion Plants
- Polygonatum biflorum (Solomon's Seal) - Adds graceful arching stems and spring flowers above the fine textured foliage.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Provides contrasting upright texture in areas transitioning from shade to sun.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Creates a layered woodland planting with spring blooms and attractive foliage.
- Stylophorum diphyllum (Wood Poppy) - Offers bright yellow flowers that stand out against the soft green sedge foliage.
- Aquilegia canadensis (Wild Columbine) - Brings delicate red and yellow flowers that attract pollinators in spring.