Carex pensylvanica - Pennsylvania Sedge

Morphology/Growth Habits: Pennsylvania Sedge is easy to grow in dry to medium well-drained soils with part to full sun, prefers dry soils and part shade. Foliage resembles grass, making it a popular alternative for lawns. In the spring, white flowers rise on stalks slightly above the rest of the foliage. Semi-evergreen. Spreads by rhizomes, monoecious, female flowers are followed by fruit. Spreads at least 3 inches every year, with growth occurring in the cooler spring and autumn months. 

Height: 0.5-1 ft.

Light: Part Shade-Full Shade

Moisture: Dry-Medium

Bloom color: White, Green

Bloom time: May

Habitat/Best Environments: Grows in thickets and dry woodland areas. Popular option for lawn replacement, although it should not be planted in areas with heavy foot traffic. While it can handle a variety of light conditions, it grows best in partial shade and medium soil moisture.

Ecological relationships: Supports larvae of several satyrine butterflies, and foliage is used for nests and habitat.