Carex Humilis

Description

Carex Humilis, commonly known as the low sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Cyperaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, and is widely distributed in North America. This plant is characterized by its short stature, growing only up to 20cm in height, and its blue-green leaves that form dense clumps. In the spring, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are arranged in spikes. The low sedge is an excellent choice for use in rock gardens, borders, and as a groundcover.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Monocotyledonae
Order	Poales
Family	Cyperaceae
Genus	Carex

Appearance

The low sedge has blue-green leaves that grow up to 20cm in length and 2mm in width. The leaves are narrow and pointed, and form dense clumps. In the spring, small, inconspicuous flowers are produced in spikes that grow up to 5cm in length. The flowers are followed by small, brown seed capsules that contain the plant’s seeds.

Care Guide

Carex Humilis is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: The low sedge prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate dry conditions once established. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater.
• Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.
• Soil: The low sedge prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
• Sunlight: The low sedge prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade, but it may not flower as well in these conditions.
• Hardiness Zones: Carex Humilis is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Carex Humilis is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant.

Habitat

Carex Humilis is native to Europe and Asia, and is widely distributed in North America. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and rocky outcrops. The low sedge prefers moist soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can Carex Humilis be grown in a container?
• A: Yes, Carex Humilis can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
• Q: Does the low sedge require pruning?
• A: Pruning is not necessary for this plant, but you can remove any dead or yellowing leaves to improve its appearance.
• Q: Is Carex Humilis deer resistant?
• A: Yes, the low sedge is deer resistant.
• Q: Can the low sedge be used for erosion control?
• A: Yes, Carex Humilis can be used for erosion control due to its ability to form dense clumps that stabilize soil.

Related Plants

• Carex comans
• Carex elata
• Carex grayi
• Carex morrowii
• Carex oshimensis

References

• Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
• Flora of North America Editorial Committee. (2002). Flora of North America North of Mexico, Vol. 23: Magnoliophyta: Commelinidae (in part): Cyperaceae. Oxford University Press.
• Huxley, A. (1992). The new RHS dictionary of gardening. Macmillan Press.