Sedge, Cherokee

Cherokee Sedge (Carex cherokeensis)

Cherokee Sedge is a versatile, low-maintenance perennial grass native to the southeastern United States. Known for its fine-textured, arching green blades, this hardy sedge thrives in a variety of soils and light conditions, making it an ideal ground cover for shade gardens, woodland edges, and rain gardens. Cherokee Sedge provides shelter and food for wildlife, while its deep roots help control erosion. Its graceful form and ecological benefits make it an excellent addition to native plantings and naturalized landscapes.

Key Characteristics:

• Wildlife Habitat and Forage
  Cherokee Sedge creates dense mats that provide shelter for small mammals, insects, and ground-nesting birds like the Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus). Its seeds offer food for birds, while its foliage supports beneficial insects, making it a key plant for increasing biodiversity in your garden.

• Erosion Control and Soil Health
  With its deep, fibrous root system, Cherokee Sedge helps prevent soil erosion on slopes, along streambanks, or in rain gardens. Its roots also improve soil structure, helping to retain moisture and increase water infiltration, making it valuable for sustainable landscapes.

• Traditional and Medicinal Uses
  While not widely used today, some Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, utilized sedges for weaving baskets and mats. The plant also played a role in traditional healing practices, where the roots were sometimes used in decoctions to soothe various ailments.

• Ideal for Shade Gardens and Moist Areas
  Cherokee Sedge thrives in partial shade to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils. It’s an excellent choice for woodland gardens, rain gardens, and areas with poor drainage. This sedge adds texture and movement to shaded areas while supporting the local ecosystem.

• Low Maintenance and Adaptable
  Cherokee Sedge is highly adaptable, tolerating a range of conditions from dry to wet soils once established. It’s a low-maintenance ground cover that requires minimal care, making it perfect for naturalized areas, meadow plantings, or native garden borders.

Product Details:

• Native Range: Southeastern United States
• Plant Life Cycle: Perennial
• Sun Requirements: Partial shade to full shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist to dry, well-drained
• Mature Height: 12-18 inches
• Bloom Time: April to May
• Bloom Color: Green to tan seed heads
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9

Cherokee Sedge offers both beauty and ecological function, supporting wildlife and preventing soil erosion while thriving in shady, moist areas. It’s a valuable addition to rain gardens, woodlands, and naturalized spaces.