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Description
Carex divisa, commonly known as the Southern Wiry Sedge or Divided Sedge, is a perennial ornamental grass that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is an evergreen grass that looks similar to a clump of green leaves and has a height of up to 2 feet. The plant is native to North America and grows well in a variety of conditions, including full sun to partial shade, and well-drained soils. Carex divisa is a popular choice for gardeners because of its low maintenance and easy care requirements.
Taxonomy
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Carex |
Appearance
The Carex divisa plant has a clump-forming habit with narrow, linear, and upright leaves that are green in color. The leaves can grow up to 2 feet long and have a width of 0.2 inches. The grass produces inconspicuous flowers that are brown or yellow in color and appear on the tips of stems in late spring or early summer. The plant has a fibrous root system and is often used as a groundcover in gardens and landscapes.
Care Guide
Carex divisa is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for its care:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering during the growing season to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to become waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not grow as vigorously in low light conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Carex divisa is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carex divisa is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by the following:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with fungicides.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. It can be prevented by ensuring proper soil drainage.
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Carex divisa is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, meadows, and woodlands. It prefers moist soils and can grow in full sun to partial shade. The plant is often used as a groundcover in gardens and landscapes and is commonly found in parks and public spaces.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Carex divisa plant?
A: The plant requires regular watering during the growing season to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to become waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Carex divisa?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH.
Q: How tall does Carex divisa grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 2 feet in height.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Carex divisa?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Carex glauca
- Carex muskingumensis
- Carex vulpinoidea
- Carex plantaginea
References
- “Carex divisa,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 10, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287516&isprofile=0&basic=carex%20divisa.
- “Carex divisa,” North Carolina State University Extension, accessed August 10, 2021, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/carex-divisa/.
- “Carex divisa,” PlantFiles, accessed August 10, 2021, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/115427/.
