Clustered Field Sedge (Dune Sedge) – Carex praegracilis (CARE-ex pre-GRASS-ill-iss) Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family) Native to: Much of mid-western and western Northern Hemisphere to S. America, including most of CA; wet places, often alkali, including meadows, streamsides, floodplains and other moist areas. Growth characteristics: sod-forming sedge mature height: 1-2 ft. mature width: 1-2 ft. Cool- season sod-forming perennial sedge. Leaves slender, grass-like, from stout black rhizomes. Moderate growth/spread rate and long lifespan. Blooms/fruits: Blooms May-Sept. Flowers small, yellow on short stalks. Uses in the garden: Usefully in many landscape situations. Good as a lawn substitute that’s mowed occasionally or left natural. Fine on banks, slopes and near streams & ponds. Does ok under trees if gets some sun. Nice-looking dark-green color & wavy texture. Mix with perennials for a native meadow. May sometimes be labeled as Carex pansa (CA Meadow Sedge: very similar species). Sensible substitute for: Non-native lawn grasses. Attracts: Good bird habitat if left un-mowed: provides cover and seeds for food. Requirements: Element Requirement Sun Full sun to part-shade Soil Any local texture, pH Water Needs rain/regular water in winter/spring; regular/occasional summer water will keep it green; can be summer dry – will turn golden-tan Fertilizer none Other Management: Can be mowed occasionally if desired – cut high (4-6 inches). Will spread and eventually form a dense, hardy ‘lawn’. Propagation: from seed : possible in fall (in prepared ground or pots) by divisions : in fall/winter; easy Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 3, 8, 13, 20, 21, 24 1/18/15 © Project SOUND