Houghton's Sedge (Carex houghtoniana)

Houghton's Sedge

Carex houghtoniana

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

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.