Muhlenberg’s Sedge
Tufted sedge growing 30-60 cm tall. Features narrow leaves and small, star-like seed heads. Prefers dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. Often found in dry woods, prairies, and sandy areas. Drought-tolerant once established. Provides food for wildlife and erosion control on dry slopes. Suitable for rock gardens, dry meadows, and as a native lawn alternative in dry, partially shaded areas.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Green to Brown
Bloom Time: Late-Spring to Early-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Dry to Moist-Drained
Phenology: New growth begins May. Flowering spikes appear June. Seeds mature July-August. Foliage turns straw-colored in winter. Forms persistent clumps.
Wildlife Value: Seeds eaten by songbirds and small mammals; provides cover for ground-feeding birds; nesting material for small birds
Habit Over Time: Forms neat, upright clumps that maintain clear boundaries. While it may self-seed in open soil, it does not spread aggressively through rhizomes. The fine-textured foliage creates good structure while allowing space for interplanting.
Height: Short to Medium (1-2 feet)