Carex grayi, commonly known as Gray's Sedge, is a native perennial sedge found in moist woodlands, wetlands, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, well-drained soils and prefers partial to moderate shade.
This plant features narrow, grass-like leaves and produces small, greenish-brown flower spikes that appear in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by small seed heads that provide food for birds and other wildlife. Its dense growth habit helps with soil stabilization and erosion control in wet, shaded habitats.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Carex grayi is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded areas, and naturalized landscapes, offering ecological benefits, texture, and low-maintenance coverage.
Carex grayi, commonly known as Gray's Sedge, is a native perennial sedge found in moist woodlands, wetlands, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, well-drained soils and prefers partial to moderate shade.
This plant features narrow, grass-like leaves and produces small, greenish-brown flower spikes that appear in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by small seed heads that provide food for birds and other wildlife. Its dense growth habit helps with soil stabilization and erosion control in wet, shaded habitats.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Carex grayi is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded areas, and naturalized landscapes, offering ecological benefits, texture, and low-maintenance coverage.
Bloom: late spring to mid-summer
Habitats: low shaded areas along streams; sandy and non-sandy swamps; shaded seeps; moist deciduous woodlands
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: wet to moist
Plant type (height): sedge (2 to 2.5 feet)
Requirements: partial sun to moderate shade
Soil: soil containing loam, sand, or silt with decaying organic matter
