Carex plantaginea (Plantain-Leaf Sedge)

Carex plantaginea (Plantain-Leaf Sedge) is a low-growing, evergreen perennial grass forming a dense clump of broad, bright green arching leaves, 12 in. long (30 cm), adorned with puckered ribs. The blades emerge from leaf sheaths that have a unique deep wine-red color. In spring, showy flower spikes of purple-brown subtle flowers rise above the foliage. Plantain-Leaf Sedge, also known as Seersucker Sedge, is rhizomatous and spreads to form an attractive colony from short underground rhizomes. It is a valuable ground cover for shady areas that will adapt to difficult dry shaded sites. It can be used to underplant shrubs and perennials, looks striking when used as an edger, and is excellent for erosion control. Plantain-Leaf Sedge is native to woodland slopes, rich deciduous woods, ravines, and wooded mountainous sites in much of eastern North America. Easy to grow, low maintenance, and tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, the bold foliage of this unique sedge makes it a wonderful textural accent in the woodland garden.

• Grows up to 8-12 in. tall (20-30 cm) and 24 in. wide (60 cm).
• Performs best in light to medium shade in neutral to slightly acidic, dry to moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates full shade. Some drought tolerance once established.
• This elegant sedge is perfect as a ground cover. Excellent for naturalized areas, woodlands, native gardens, and shade gardens. 
• This sedge attracts birds, butterflies, and other pollinators, but is deer resistant.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Cut to the ground in late winter before new growth emerges.
• Propagate by division of established clumps.
• Native to most of eastern North America, from New Brunswick to Georgia, west to Minnesota, and Iowa.