Michel’s Sedge

(Carex michelii)

Michel’s Sedge (Carex michelii)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 21" - 33"
High Temp. 72°F - 80°F
Low Temp. 16°F - 27°F

Summary

Carex michelii, commonly known as Michel’s Sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to a variety of habitats including semi-arid grasslands, damp meadows, riverbanks, and open woodlands across central, southern, and eastern Europe, Turkey, the Caucasus, and Iran. It forms dense clumps reaching up to 60 cm in height and width, with narrow, grass-like leaves. The inconspicuous greenish-brown flowers appear in late spring to early summer and are followed by small, brown fruit that can be of interest in garden settings.

Michel’s Sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in a range of conditions, from full sun to part shade, and its preference for moist, well-drained soils. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, rain gardens, and as a ground cover in damp areas. While it requires little maintenance once established, it may need additional watering during prolonged dry periods. This sedge is not typically associated with serious diseases or pests, but it can spread if conditions are favorable, so gardeners should monitor its growth to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Shade, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Semi-arid grasslands, damp meadows, riverbanks, and open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Carex michelii, Carex ampullacea, Carex ampullacea, Carex beckeri, Carex beckeri, Carex michelii f. puberula, Carex michelii var. beckeri, Carex michelii var. caespitans, Carex michelii var. vitekii

GBIF Accepted Name: Carex michelii