grassN. America Native

Cherokee Sedge

Name: Cherokee Sedge
Brand: Carex
Availability: InStock

Carex cherokeensis

$9.99

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

15 inches

Width

21 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate to high

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Long-lived perennial

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

A graceful, clump-forming, evergreen sedge native to the southeastern United States. It forms dense tufts of narrow, bright green, grass-like leaves. This sedge is particularly valued for its ornamental, drooping seed heads that resemble wheat or barley, appearing in spring and persisting into summer. It is an excellent, low-maintenance lawn alternative for shady areas.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Cherokee Sedge offers a fine, lush texture with its bright green, evergreen foliage. The main ornamental highlight is the attractive, pendulous, wheat-like seed heads that add unique interest in the spring.

It is an outstanding functional groundcover and lawn substitute for shady, moist areas where traditional turfgrass fails. Its dense root system is also effective for erosion control on shaded slopes.

As a native plant, it supports local ecosystems. It provides cover for small wildlife and is a larval host plant for some skipper butterflies and moths. It is a key component of a healthy woodland garden habitat.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

American Meadows

<1 Gal PotBarerootTrays

In Stock$9.99

Perennial Farm Marketplace

In Stock$26.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with partial to full shade and average to moist soil.
Incorporate compost to improve soil structure and moisture retention.
Dig a hole slightly wider than the pot.
Place the plant so its crown is level with the soil surface.
Backfill the hole, firm the soil gently, and water well.
Maintain consistent moisture, especially during the first year.

Pro Tip

For a low-maintenance lawn look in shade, plant on 12-inch centers and mow two or three times a year at a high setting.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially in sunnier spots.
Use as a groundcover or matrix planting in a shade garden.
Cut back in late winter to encourage fresh, new growth.
Appreciate the ornamental seed heads in spring and early summer.

Don't

Do not plant in hot, dry, full-sun locations.
Avoid letting the soil dry out for extended periods.
Don't bury the crown when planting or mulching.
Don't expect it to perform well in poorly drained, boggy winter soil.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Lush groundcover for woodland gardensGraceful lawn alternative in shady areasSoft-textured accent for moist borders

Companion Plants

Heuchera americana Tiarella cordifolia Asarum canadense Polystichum acrostichoides Phlox divaricata

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cherokee Sedge questions

What zones can Cherokee Sedge grow in?

Cherokee Sedge is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cherokee Sedge deer resistant?

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

When does Cherokee Sedge bloom?

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

Does Cherokee Sedge need full sun?

Cherokee Sedge does best in part shade.