Shoreline Sedge

(Carex hyalinolepis)

Shoreline Sedge (Carex hyalinolepis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Carex hyalinolepis, commonly known as the Shoreline Sedge, is a perennial sedge native to wetland habitats including marshes, swamps, and along riverbanks in southern North America, from Ontario to Texas. It forms dense tussocks and typically grows up to 3 feet tall. The Shoreline Sedge produces inconspicuous flower spikes in early summer, which are not particularly showy but are ecologically significant for wetland ecosystems.

Shoreline Sedge is valued for its ability to stabilize wetland soils and provide habitat for wildlife. It is often used in wetland restoration projects and can be a suitable choice for rain gardens or naturalized areas that experience periodic flooding. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. While it is not known for major disease problems, it can spread aggressively in ideal wet conditions, potentially outcompeting other plants in a garden setting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-3.3 feet
  • Width: 1-3.3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous, Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wetland habitats including marshes, swamps, and along riverbanks

Other Names

Common Names: Shore Sedge, Hyaline-Scaled Sedge, Hyaline Sedge

Scientific Names: , Carex hyalinolepis, Carex impressa, Carex lacustris var. laxiflora, Carex riparia var. impressa,

GBIF Accepted Name: