White Bear Sedge

(Carex albursina)

White Bear Sedge (Carex albursina)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Carex albursina, commonly known as White Bear Sedge, is a semi-deciduous perennial grass native to the understory of deciduous forests, moist meadows, and floodplains in the Eastern and Central United States, as well as Ontario, Canada. It typically grows to a height of 0.8-1 feet (0.2-0.3 meters) and spreads about 1 foot (0.3 meters) wide. The plant features clumps of broad, green leaves and inconspicuous greenish-brown flower spikes that appear in late spring to early summer.

White Bear Sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in shaded conditions and its preference for moist to wet soils, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas. It is also used for erosion control due to its dense root system. In cultivation, it requires consistent moisture and can tolerate poorly drained soils. It is best grown in part shade to full shade and is relatively low maintenance, though it may require division every few years to maintain vigor.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass, Grass
  • Height: 0.8-1 feet
  • Width: 1-1.2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Understory of deciduous forests, moist meadows, and floodplains

Other Names

Common Names: Blunt-Scale Wood Sedge, Carex De L’Ours Blanc, Carex Du Lac À L’Ours-Blanc

Scientific Names: , Carex albursina, Carex laxiflora var. latifolia, Carex lasiocarpa var. latifolia,

GBIF Accepted Name: Carex albursina E.Sheld.