Carex paniculata aka Greater Tussock Sedge

Carex paniculata is a perennial sedge in the Cyperaceae family. Common names include greater tussock sedge and panicled sedge. Its native range spans Europe to the Caucasus and Canary Islands. It is native to Britain and Ireland. This plant grows in temperate regions. In the wild, it inhabits wet ground, often in shade. These sites include peaty soils rich in bases.

This tall sedge forms a dense tuft or clump. Garden plants reach about 3.3–4.9 feet [1–1.5 metres] tall and wide. The clump grows upward and develops a raised, trunk-like base. Long leaves arch outward, giving it a small weeping-tree shape. The foliage stays green through much of the year. It may lose its leaves during the coldest weather. Plants take about two to five years to reach full size. Small, plain flower spikes appear in summer. The flowers do not make a bold display.

Grow it in soil that stays wet or in shallow water. It suits full sun or partial shade with good light. The RHS lists clay, loam and chalk as suitable soils. It accepts acid, neutral and alkaline conditions. Poor drainage suits this wetland plant rather than limiting its use. Its need for constant wetness shapes where gardeners can place it. The RHS gives it a UK hardiness rating of H7. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 6–9.

Use it in bog gardens or wet woodland edges. It also suits places with dappled shade. Its tall tuft and arching leaves give these sites structure. The RHS lists it as a low-maintenance plant. It needs no routine pruning. Gardeners may clear old leaves from the base if desired. Raise new plants from seed or divide clumps in early summer. The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems. Plants For A Future does not flag it as weedy.

Plants For A Future records cooked roots and seeds as edible. The small seeds make them awkward to use. Its low food-use rating reflects limited edible value. The same source lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. This lack of reported hazards does not establish safety for pets. The straw has a recorded use as bedding.