Pennsylvania Sedge

Pennsylvania Sedge
Carex pensylvanica

A low-growing, clump-forming native sedge with fine, soft green foliage that turns golden-brown in winter. Ideal for dry to moderately moist woodlands, open forests, and shaded meadows, it creates a dense, carpet-like groundcover. Known for its drought tolerance, deer resistance, and ability to stabilize soil while adding texture to naturalized landscapes.

Growing Conditions

• Height: 6–12 in
• Spread: Spreading by short rhizomes, forming dense colonies
• Light: Part shade to full shade
• Soil: Well-drained, dry to moderately moist soils; tolerates sandy or loamy soils
• Hardiness: Zone 3–8
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Low-maintenance and deer resistant

Ideal for woodland restoration, understory plantings, shady rain gardens, and naturalized landscapes. Excellent for erosion control on gentle slopes and woodland edges.

Ecological Value

• Provides cover and nesting habitat for small wildlife and insects
• Supports pollinators and beneficial insects
• Stabilizes soils in shaded or semi-shaded areas
• Adds texture, seasonal interest, and biodiversity to native plant communities

Larval Host Plant For
Caterpillars of native sedge- and grass-feeding moth species.

Companion Species

• Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
• White Wood Aster (Eurybia divaricata)
• Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum biflorum)
• Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica)
• Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum)
• Canada Wild Rye (Elymus canadensis)
• Bottlebrush Grass (Elymus hystrix)

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive
Origin Native Plants

3.5 inch Pots