Hammer sedge

Carex hirta

Physical Characteristics

Carex hirta is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from June to July. 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. 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 N. Africa and east to temperate Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Meadow; 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

Diuretic Diuretic[61].

Known Hazards

None known