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Carex divulsa - Berkeley Sedge from Mortellaros
Berkeley Sedge
Carex divulsa
Berkeley Sedge is a versatile, clumping grass-like perennial that thrives in a wide range of landscape settings. Though often mistaken for a Texas native, it originates from Europe but adapts well to Texas gardens due to its tolerance for heat, drought, and various soil conditions. This sedge is an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes, offering a lush, green appearance year-round in milder climates. It thrives in both sun and shade, making it an adaptable groundcover for gardens with mixed light conditions.
Unlike true grasses, Berkeley Sedge does not require frequent mowing and maintains a soft, arching form that makes it ideal for naturalistic landscapes, underplanting trees, or stabilizing soil on slopes. It grows well in neutral to slightly acidic soils and is highly tolerant of poor drainage, making it a reliable choice for areas that experience occasional standing water. Its fine-textured foliage remains evergreen in warm climates but may go semi-dormant in colder regions.
Berkeley Sedge typically grows 12 to 18 inches tall and spreads slowly through short rhizomes, forming a dense, low-maintenance groundcover over time. When planting as a groundcover, space plants 12 to 18 inches apart for even coverage. It works well in mass plantings, along pathways, or in shaded garden beds where traditional turf struggles. While deer tend to avoid it, Berkeley Sedge is a valuable plant for supporting biodiversity, offering shelter for small wildlife and beneficial insects.
In winter, Berkeley Sedge may experience some browning in colder areas, particularly with hard freezes. To refresh its appearance, trim back older foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. In areas with mild winters, it typically remains green year-round with minimal maintenance.
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Shade Tolerant |
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Low Maintenance |
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Erosion Control |
Flower Color:Yellow-Green
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Height:12-18 in
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Spread:12-18 in
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Spacing:12-18 in
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USDA Hardiness Zone 4a
Available Sizes:
| Item |
Description |
| SED-BER-01 |
#001 SEDGE, BERKELEY |
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Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Full Sun |
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Full Sun to Part Shade |
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Full Sun to Full Shade |
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Part Shade to Full Shade |
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Full Shade |
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Tolerates Poor Drainage
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