grass

Spark Plug Sedge

Carex phyllocephala 'Spark Plug'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

8 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Carex phyllocephala 'Spark Plug' is a low-growing, perennial sedge with dense, tufted clumps of narrow, arching foliage. It produces distinctive, compact flower spikes that add texture to garden borders and containers. This cultivar is notable for its compact, upright growth habit and vibrant green foliage, making it an excellent ground cover or accent plant in shaded or partially sunny gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides fine-textured, evergreen foliage that adds soft contrast in shaded gardens.

Erosion control on slopes and pathways.

Supports local pollinators with minimal maintenance.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring
Water thoroughly after planting, keep soil moist
Apply mulch around base to retain moisture
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer
Maintain consistent moisture during the growing season
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring to promote health

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil for best growth and avoid overwatering

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture
Divide in early spring to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot ❌
Do not cut back in late fall, wait until early spring
Avoid heavy fertilization that may promote disease

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Erosion-control groundcoverSilver-foliaged borderShaded woodland garden accent

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Spark Plug Sedge questions

What zones can Spark Plug Sedge grow in?

Spark Plug Sedge is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Spark Plug Sedge deer resistant?

Yes — Spark Plug Sedge is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Spark Plug Sedge bloom?

Spark Plug Sedge typically blooms in spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Spark Plug Sedge need full sun?

Spark Plug Sedge does best in part shade.