Gray's Sedge (Carex grayi) | Prairie Restorations

Gray's Sedge

Carex grayi

Carex grayi, known as Gray's Sedge, is a perennial sedge that grows 1 to 3 feet tall. It has narrow, upright leaves and produces clusters of flowers with distinctive, beaked perigynia. This species typically inhabits floodplain woodlands, forest edges, and shaded wetlands, preferring rich, loamy soils with consistent moisture. Carex grayi was classified as a Special Concern Species in 2013 by the Minnesota DNR due to lack of flooding events which are the means in which this species spreads its seed.

Characteristics

Type	Graminoid
Sun	Partial Sun, Shade
Soil	Clay, Sand/Gravel
Moisture	Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	32
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	15
Dominance	Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.