Contents
Description
Carex Cruciata, commonly known as Crossed Sedge, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in damp areas such as marshes, wet meadows, and riverbanks. The plant typically grows up to 60 cm in height and has slowly spreading rhizomes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Carex |
Appearance
Carex Cruciata has green, narrow leaves that are around 2-4 mm wide and 10-20 cm long. The flower spikes are typically 2-5 cm long and have a distinctive crossed shape, hence the common name Crossed Sedge. The spikes contain both male and female flowers and are surrounded by a leaf-like bract. The plant blooms from May to July and produces yellowish-brown seeds in late summer.
Care Guide
To care for Carex Cruciata, follow these guidelines:
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become too lush and floppy.
Soil: Carex Cruciata prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH between 5.5 and 7.0 is ideal.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
Hardiness Zones: Carex Cruciata is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carex Cruciata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by leaf spot, rust, or smut. These can be treated with fungicides. The plant may also be attacked by slugs and snails, which can be controlled with baits or traps.
Habitat
Carex Cruciata is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in damp areas such as marshes, wet meadows, and riverbanks. It is well-suited for planting in rain gardens or other moist areas of the landscape.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Carex Cruciata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Carex Cruciata can be grown in containers as long as they are kept consistently moist and provided with partial shade.
Q: How often should I divide Carex Cruciata?
A: Carex Cruciata can be divided every 3-4 years in the spring. Dividing the plant will help to maintain its vigor and prevent it from becoming too crowded.
Q: Is Carex Cruciata deer-resistant?
A: Carex Cruciata is generally deer-resistant, although hungry deer may occasionally nibble on the foliage.
Q: Can Carex Cruciata be propagated from seed?
A: Yes, Carex Cruciata can be propagated from seed. Sow the seeds in the fall or early spring in a cold frame or other sheltered location. Germination may take several weeks to several months.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Carex Cruciata:
- Carex Grayi
- Carex Eburnea
- Carex Flacca
- Carex Pendula
- Carex Remota
References
- “Carex Cruciata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d234
- “Carex Cruciata.” Plants for a Future. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Carex+cruciata
- “Carex Cruciata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/26754/Carex-cruciata/Details
