Home Prairie and Wetland Center
16245 S US Hwy 71
Belton, MO 64012
Tel: (816) 331-9738
Fax: (816) 331-9739

Carex cristatella

Crested Sedge

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Carex cristatella (Crested Sedge)

Crested Sedge forms large clumps of vegetative growth which can be used as ground cover in moist areas. This species grows in colonies in full sunlight on moist ground but not in standing water more than approximately 2 inches in depth. Crested Sedge is easily identified by its characteristic inflorescence of small green balls that spread in all directions. The flowers are present from May to July and turn brown later in the season. Additionally this sedge's habit of occuring in colonies of large clumps is a useful diagnostic tool. Crested Sedge mostly resides in the northern half of Missouri and occurs in bottomland prairies, moist depressions in uplands grasslands, roadside ditches, along lakeshores and streambanks. It is less likely found in openings in bottomland forests.

Additional Information:


Height
1-3 Feet

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Spread
1-2 Feet

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Bloom/Seasonal Color
Green


USDA Hardiness Zone 3-6

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Good Companions
Fowl Manna Grass (Glyceria striata), Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Fox Sedge (Carex vulpinoidea), Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), Marsh Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

Characteristics & Attributes

Hydrologic Designation

FACW+

Root

Fibrous
Rhizomes

Season of Interest

Mid (May-June)

Soil Moisture

High

Special Uses

Bog
Ground Cover

Sun Exposure

Full Sun

USFS MO Ecological Map

Wildlife Benefit

Cover
Food/Birds