Tufted Sedge, Golden Variegated Sedge, Tufted Sedge

Carex elata

Physical Characteristics

Carex elata is an evergreen Perennial growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 1.5 m (5ft in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

Most of Europe, including Britain, south to Algeria and east to the Caucasus.

Habitats

Ground Cover; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seed Edible Uses: Root - cooked[172]. Seed[172]. No further details are given, but the seed is small and fiddly to use[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known