Oval-Leaf Sedge
(Carex cephalophora)
Oval-Leaf Sedge (Carex cephalophora)
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Reuven Martin
Public Domain
Image By:
Reuven Martin
Recorded By:
Copyright:
Public Domain
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Reuven Martin | License Type: Public Domain | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/ | Rights Holder: Reuven Martin | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2019-06-12T17:24:59-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Carex cephalophora, commonly known as oval-leaf sedge, oval-headed sedge, woodbank sedge, or short-headed bracted sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, forest edges, and meadows in the central and eastern United States, as well as southeastern Canada. It has also been introduced to Germany. This sedge typically forms dense clumps reaching 1 to 3 feet in height and width. The foliage is grass-like, with a fine texture and a light to medium green color. The inflorescences, which appear in late spring to early summer, are not particularly showy, consisting of small, greenish-brown spikes.
Carex cephalophora is valued for its adaptability and is used as a ground cover or for naturalizing in shaded areas. It is also suitable for rain gardens due to its tolerance of moist conditions. This sedge is low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, and is resistant to most pests and diseases. It thrives in part shade to full sun and prefers well-drained soils with consistent moisture. While it can tolerate drier conditions, it will not perform as well in prolonged drought. Carex cephalophora is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, making it a reliable choice for gardeners. It is also deer-resistant, which is an added benefit in areas with high deer populations.CC BY-SA 4.0
Carex cephalophora is valued for its adaptability and is used as a ground cover or for naturalizing in shaded areas. It is also suitable for rain gardens due to its tolerance of moist conditions. This sedge is low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, and is resistant to most pests and diseases. It thrives in part shade to full sun and prefers well-drained soils with consistent moisture. While it can tolerate drier conditions, it will not perform as well in prolonged drought. Carex cephalophora is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, making it a reliable choice for gardeners. It is also deer-resistant, which is an added benefit in areas with high deer populations.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 0.7-3 feet
- Width: 1-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Sun
- Water: Medium, High
- Drainage: Fast, Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Open woodlands, forest edges, and meadows
Other Names
Common Names: Oval-Leaved Sedge, Ovalleaf Sedge, Oval-Headed Sedge, Woodbank Sedge, Short-Headed Bracted Sedge, Oval Leaf Sedge
Scientific Names: , Carex cephalophora, Carex cephalophora var. cephalophora, Carex cephalophora var. maxima, Carex cephalophora var. anomala, Carex cephalophora var. bracteosa, Diemisa cephalophora, Vignea cephalophora,
GBIF Accepted Name: Carex cephalophora Muhl. ex Willd.