Contents
Description
Carex Cephalophora is a species of perennial grass-like plant that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is also known as the “Capitate Sedge” and is native to California, Oregon, and Baja California. The plant has a unique appearance with its pale green leaves and round clusters of flowers that bloom in the summer. It can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide and is commonly used in garden borders, rock gardens, and as a ground cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Carex |
Appearance
The Carex Cephalophora has long, narrow, and pale green leaves that grow up to 2 feet tall. The plant’s inflorescence is a round cluster of flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flower heads are usually 1-2 inches in diameter and are covered in small spikelets that contain the plant’s seeds. The plant’s roots are fibrous and shallow, allowing it to grow well in rocky or sandy soils.
Care Guide
Water: The Carex Cephalophora prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. It can grow in rocky or sandy soils but requires good drainage to prevent root rot.
Sunlight: The Carex Cephalophora prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate full shade in cooler climates.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
The Carex Cephalophora is relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It is also prone to rust disease, which can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To prevent rust, avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves promptly.
Habitat
The Carex Cephalophora is native to California, Oregon, and Baja California and can be found growing in rocky or sandy soils in chaparral, oak woodlands, and coniferous forests. The plant is also commonly used in landscaping and can be found in gardens, rock gardens, and as a ground cover.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Carex Cephalophora grow in full shade?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate full shade, but it prefers partial shade to full sun.
Q: How often should I water my Carex Cephalophora?
A: The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during the summer months. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Carex Cephalophora?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C).
Q: Is the Carex Cephalophora a good ground cover?
A: Yes, the plant is commonly used as a ground cover and can help prevent soil erosion.
Related Plants
- Carex divulsa
- Carex morrowii
- Carex pansa
- Carex tumulicola
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Carex cephalophora. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Carex-cephalophora-(Capitate-Sedge)
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Carex cephalophora (Capitate Sedge). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/carex-cephalophora-capitate-sedge
- USDA. (n.d.). Carex cephalophora Mack. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CACE11
