Creeping Sedge

(Carex laxiculmis)

Creeping Sedge (Carex laxiculmis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Carex laxiculmis, commonly known as creeping sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to rich, moist woodlands, and shady stream banks in central and eastern North America, including Ontario, Canada. It typically forms dense clumps reaching 0.5-1 feet in height and width. Creeping sedge has grass-like leaves that are blue-green in color, providing a unique texture and hue to shaded garden areas. It produces inconspicuous greenish-brown flowers in late spring to early summer, which are not particularly showy but add to the plant’s naturalistic appeal.

Creeping sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in shaded conditions where many plants struggle. It is often used as a ground cover in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized areas. Its preference for moist environments makes it suitable for planting near water features or in rain gardens. The cultivar ’Hobb’, known as Bunny Blue, is sought after for its attractive blue foliage and is available from commercial nurseries. Carex laxiculmis requires consistent moisture and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good organic content and adequate drainage. While it prefers part shade to full shade, it is adaptable to various light conditions. It is generally low-maintenance but can be susceptible to leaf spot diseases in overly wet conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Rich, moist woodlands, and shady stream banks in central and eastern North America

Other Names

Common Names: Weak-Stemmed Wood Sedge, Spreading Sedge, Carex À Tiges Faibles

Scientific Names: , Carex laxiculmis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Carex laxiculmis Schwein.