Drooping Woodland Sedge
Carex arctata
LaƮche arctique
Drooping Woodland Sedge is a hardy perennial that thrives in a range of shady conditions, from upland Maple and Beech-dominant forests to moist Cedar and Hemlock forests. It's slender basal leaves form dense tufts, providing a verdant ground cover. In late spring to early summer, this sedge produces nodding greenish-brown flower spikes that add subtle interest to its surroundings. This native sedge plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion on slopes, and is moderately tolerant of foot traffic and soil compaction.
Associates: Try planting this species with Barren Strawberry (Geum fragarioides), Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense), and Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) woodland gardens.
Native Status in Ontario: Native
Find more information here at Network of Nature.
Photo Credit: Zack Harris