Elongated Sedge

(Carex elongata)

Elongated Sedge (Carex elongata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Carex elongata, commonly known as the elongated sedge, is a perennial herb native to a range of wetland habitats including boggy woodlands, wet meadows, river valleys, and old peat bogs across Europe, the Caucasus, western Siberia, Kazakhstan, and the Altai region. It forms dense tussocks that can reach up to about 3 feet in height. The plant features trigonous stems that are up to 31 inches long, with leaves that can grow up to 35 inches long. The inflorescence is characterized by up to 18 golden-tinged spikes, which add a touch of color to the landscape when in bloom.

Elongated sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in the restoration of wetland areas and for erosion control. It prefers consistently moist to wet soils and can tolerate partial shade, although it grows best in full sun. This sedge is not commonly used in ornamental horticulture but can be a useful plant for naturalistic and wildlife-friendly gardens. It requires little maintenance once established. However, it can be susceptible to rust and other fungal diseases in conditions of poor air circulation or overly wet foliage.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1.5-2.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Border Plant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Boggy woodlands, wet meadows, river valleys, and old peat bogs

Other Names

Common Names: Long-bracted sedge

Scientific Names: , Carex elongata, Carex canescens, Carex divergens, Carex elongata f. heterostachya, Carex elongata f. umbrosa, Carex elongata subsp. gebhardii, Carex elongata var. alpestris, Carex elongata var. brachystachya, Carex elongata var. gebhardii

GBIF Accepted Name: