Overview
Carex muskingumensis is a clump forming, tufted herbaceous perennial in the genus Carex, part of the Cyperaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Carex muskingumensis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include architectural, city and courtyard gardens and cottage and informal garden. It is native to N America.
About
Carex muskingumensis is a clump-forming, semi-evergreen sedge characterized by slender, pale green leaves that grow in fan-shaped clusters. During the months of June and July, it produces golden-brown flowers on stems that can reach heights of up to 75 cm.
About the genus
Carex encompasses both deciduous and evergreen species, characterized by their rhizomatous or tufted growth habits. These perennials feature triangular stems topped with linear or strap-like foliage, and they produce spikes that can be either short or elongated, adorned with small green or brown flowers.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Carex
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Carex muskingumensis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming, Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- N America
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Carex muskingumensis
- Cultivation
- Thrives in any soil that does not become dry, even shallow water. Partial shade is ideal, although sun is tolerated too
- Pruning
- Cut out dead foliage as required
- Propagation
- Propagate by division or by seed
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Carex muskingumensis?
Thrives in any soil that does not become dry, even shallow water. Partial shade is ideal, although sun is tolerated too.
Where is the best place to plant Carex muskingumensis?
Carex muskingumensis prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Carex muskingumensis need?
Carex muskingumensis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
How do I prune Carex muskingumensis?
Cut out dead foliage as required.
How big does Carex muskingumensis grow?
Carex muskingumensis reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Carex muskingumensis hardy in the UK?
Carex muskingumensis has a UK hardiness rating of H4.
How do I propagate Carex muskingumensis?
Propagate by division or by seed.