Morrow’s Sedge
(Carex morrowii)
Morrow’s Sedge (Carex morrowii)
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Salicyna
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Salicyna
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Salicyna | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Salicyna | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Carex_morrowii_2016-04-03_6866b.JPG | Notes: [[Commons:Batch_uploading/AucklandMuseumCCBY|Auckland Museum]] Page 344.82 Object #34481 AK297546 Image 3/3 http://api.aucklandmuseum.com/id/media/v/73070 |






















Estimated Native Range
Summary
Carex morrowii, commonly known as Morrow’s sedge, Japanese grass sedge, or kan suge, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Cyperaceae family. It is native to the understory of cool, moist forests in central and southern Japan, where it thrives in the dappled light and well-drained soils. Morrow’s sedge typically grows to a height of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) with a similar spread, forming dense clumps of arching, narrow, grass-like leaves. Many cultivars exhibit variegated foliage, adding visual interest to the garden. The plant produces inconspicuous brown flower spikes in late spring, though it is primarily grown for its foliage.
Morrow’s sedge is valued for its ability to tolerate heavy shade and wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, naturalized areas, and as erosion control on slopes. It is also deer-resistant, which is a significant benefit in areas with high deer populations. In cultivation, it requires part shade to full shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soil to thrive. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9 and adapts well to container growing. While generally low-maintenance, it can be affected by rust and rot if conditions are too wet.CC BY-SA 4.0
Morrow’s sedge is valued for its ability to tolerate heavy shade and wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, naturalized areas, and as erosion control on slopes. It is also deer-resistant, which is a significant benefit in areas with high deer populations. In cultivation, it requires part shade to full shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soil to thrive. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9 and adapts well to container growing. While generally low-maintenance, it can be affected by rust and rot if conditions are too wet.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 1-1.5 feet
- Width: 1.5-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: Medium, High
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Street Planting, Water Garden
Natural Habitat
The understory of cool, moist forests in central and southern Japan
Other Names
Common Names: Japanese Grass Sedge, Morrow’s Sedge, Kan Suge, Evergold Carex, Japan-Segge, Japansk Starr
Scientific Names: , Carex morrowii,
GBIF Accepted Name: Carex morrowii Boott