Carex houghtoniana

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Carex Houghtoniana 3 Carex Houghtoniana 2 Carex Houghtoniana 4 Carex Houghtoniana Carex Houghtoniana 1
Carex Houghtoniana 3 Carex Houghtoniana 2 Carex Houghtoniana 4 Carex Houghtoniana Carex Houghtoniana 1

Carex houghtoniana

Common Name: Houghton's Sedge

Carex houghtoniana, or Houghton's Sedge, is a perennial sedge that grows 8 to 40 inches tall. It features narrow, erect leaves and produces dense clusters of flowers with distinctive, beaked perigynia. This species is native to sandy, gravelly, or rocky soils along roadsides, railroads, dunes, and swamp edges in Minnesota. It thrives in both sun and part shade. This species does well in disturbed areas and requires repeated disturbance to persevere.

Characteristics

Product Form Seed
Type Graminoid
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic
Average Max Height (inches) 24
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 18
Dominance Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful 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.