The very pleasant-looking Carex Appalachica is a perennial sedge that grows primarily in parts of Eastern North America. It is found as far north as the Canadian provinces of Montreal and Quebec and south as North Carolina. This plant, also called Appalachian sedge, is predominantly found along the trails of the Appalachian Mountains ranges. It is grass-like in appearance, and it often grows in clumps. The textural form of its leaves makes it unique, as it is very wispy, and many sedges often have broader and sharper leaf formations (the genus name Carex is Latin meaning cutter and derives from the characteristic that most sedges have sharp leaves and stems). Deer and various herbivores often do not like this plant, and it is also pest resistant.
Environments Wherein the Carex Appalachica Flourishes
This sedge grows best in lightly shaded regions such as dry woodlands and garden areas. One characteristic of this plant is that it will not tolerate wetness. It only grows to about six inches in height with a 12-18 in. spread. It blooms yearly at about mid-May; its flowers are wispy compared to the leaves, often clumping appearance, and they provide nectar and a food source for different species of caterpillars. Carex Appalachica, often in nature, is found under hemlock as well as walnut, maple, and Oak Trees. It provides a welcome addition as a border plant to the sides of any worn trail and any mountainous garden region.
What Types of Sedges is Carex Appalachica Most Compatible With?
Carex Appalachica is most compatible with the similar plant Carex Albicans, as the two sedges often thrive in similar climates and soil conditions. There exist approximately 1,500 species of Carex (sedges), and, sometimes, as in the case of Carex Albicans/Carex Appalachica) the two plants are so similar as to need a magnifying glass to identify each. The Appalachian sedge is a very hardy plant that thrives well in USDA Zones 3-7. It is drought-resistant and, as previously mentioned, also deer and pest resistant. Its habit of forming a fountain-like shape and uniquely textured, intensely green leaf patterns make this sedge pleasing to the eye. It is particularly well-suited for more temperate climates as well as drier environments.
The Carex Appalachica plant is the perfect addition to any garden scene in a more temperate, drier climate zone. It also looks best around maple trees and oak trees.
