Bristleleaf Sedge Grass

Carex eburnea, commonly known as Bristleleaf Sedge, looks like soft grass, but it is a shade-loving perennial that doesn’t need to be mowed. It grows in a small clump of thread-like green leaves. It blooms in the spring with spikes of white flowers that attract bees. The flowers are followed by small dark seeds that are often food wildlife. Due to its resemblance to grass, gardeners often use this sedge to replace lawn, as it grows easily in challenging shady areas, such as under trees. This sedge grows in small clumps, 6 – 8 inches wide and high. It spreads slowly by underground runners to make a small colony. These little natives are commonly found in wooded areas in eastern and central North America. They are drought tolerant and deer resistant. Plant them in groups to fill in bare areas under trees or to cover sandy areas with the clean, modern look of ornamental grasses.Bristleleaf Sedge Grass CareThis sedge prefers to grow in part sun to full shade. It spreads easily in moist soil, but also will tolerate drier sandy or rocky soils.  It prefers neutral to alkaline soil and has a high tolerance for soil with calcium and limestone. You can add decomposed organic matter to the planting hole to improve your soil. This tough sedge will not need to be fertilized.You can shear this sedge grass back in early spring to allow new growth to come up.Bristleleaf Sedge Grass SpacingFor mass planting, space these plants approximately 8 inches apart. You can divide colonies in the spring or fall and transplant the divisions to new areas.Bristleleaf Sedge Grass InformationUSDA Hardiness Zones: 2 – 8Plant Type: Light Exposure: Partial Sun to Full Sun (At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)Mature Height: 6 – 8 InchesMature Spread: 6 – 8 InchesSpacing: 6 – 8 InchesHabit: MoundedFlower Color(s): WhiteFlower Description: Bloom Period: Foliage Type: HerbaceousFoliage Color(s): GreenFoliage Description: Seasonal Interest: Spring FloweringWatering: AverageResists: DeerTolerates: DroughtAttracts: Bees, BirdsContainer Role: Uses: Borders, Erosion Control, Wildlife GardensFeatures: Attracts Pollinators, Foliage Interest, Low MaintenanceBrand: Common Name: Bristleleaf Sedge GrassOther Name(s): Scientific Name: CAREX EBURNEA