grass

Japanese Sedge

Carex morrowii

$13.32

The Story

Plant Bio

Carex morrowii, commonly known as Japanese sedge, is a clumping perennial sedge that features arching, grass-like foliage.

This species is known for its tolerance of wet soils and shade, making it a valuable addition to shaded or moist garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesCarex morrowii offers attractive variegated foliage that adds texture and color to shaded garden beds.
Practical UsesIts dense growth helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat and cover for beneficial insects and small wildlife.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Marketplace

Where to Buy

<1 Gal PotBarerootTrays
In Stock$13.32

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a well-draining soil with loam or sandy texture.
  2. Tuck sedge rhizomes or seeds into the soil, spacing 12 inches apart.
  3. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
  4. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
  5. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for healthy growth.
  6. Mulch around the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for best foliage color and growth vigor.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
  • Prune dead or damaged foliage to maintain tidy appearance
  • Mulch annually to preserve soil moisture and temperature

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
  • Do not disturb roots during active growing season
  • Refrain from using heavy, clay soils that impede drainage

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery foliage borderGroundcover in shaded areasErosion control on slopes

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Japanese forest grass HeucheraAstilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Sedge questions

What zones can Japanese Sedge grow in?

Japanese Sedge is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Japanese Sedge deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Sedge bloom?

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

Does Japanese Sedge need full sun?

Japanese Sedge does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Japanese Sedge with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.