Carex elata aka Tufted Sedge

Carex elata, or tufted sedge, is a perennial wetland plant. It belongs to the sedge family, Cyperaceae. Its native range spans Europe, central and western Asia, and North Africa. It is native to Britain and Ireland too. Wild plants grow beside rivers, lakes, and fen ditches. These sites often have soils rich in bases. In gardens, people grow it chiefly for its leaves.

The plant forms dense clumps with upright and arching growth. Garden plants reach about 1–3 feet [0.30–0.91 metres] tall and wide. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a smaller upper height of 2.5 feet [0.76 metres]. Its growth rate is moderate. The narrow, dark green leaves have a sharp central keel. They can reach 2.5 feet [0.76 metres] long. Their fine texture gives the clumps a grass-like look. NC State describes evergreen leaves, while Missouri notes yellow leaves after frost.

Small green or brown flowers appear from May to June. Separate male and female spikes make up the flower heads. These heads remain visible into July, but offer little floral display. The fruit is a small, dry achene. Both flowers and fruit measure less than one inch across. The leaves, rather than the blooms, provide the main garden interest. NC State also lists this sedge as a plant that attracts butterflies.

Grow tufted sedge in full sun or partial shade. Too much shade can make its growth flop. It needs soil that stays moist to wet. It tolerates shallow water about 0.17–0.25 feet [0.05–0.08 metres] deep. It also grows in ordinary garden soil with steady watering. Dry soil and drought do not suit it. Suitable soils include clay, loam, sand, and shallow rocky ground. NC State lists acid soil as suitable. Sources place its hardiness within USDA zones 4–9 or 5–9. Cut growth down in winter, and divide clumps in spring.

Use it beside ponds, along streams, or in rain gardens. Dense groups can cover ground in damp, lightly shaded sites. Borders, rock gardens, and pots also suit it with regular water. Sources report no major insect or disease problems. They also list resistance to deer and wet soil. Plants For A Future records cooked roots and seeds as edible. The small seeds make preparation awkward. It lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. Leaves have also served as bedding material.