Carex texensis (Texas Sedge)
Texas sedge is a fine bladed sedge that is an excellent choice for woodland gardens or as turf substitute for dry to moist shade. It also works when planted between stepping stone or en masse. Texas sedge has fine-textured leaves, and it works well with shade-loving perennials such as cedar sage, or spring wildflowers. It produces small flower spikes in late spring/early summer.
Texas sedge does best in dappled sun to shade. It will survive in full sun but will yellow and will need to be irrigated regularly. It likes deep soil that holds some extra moisture. It does best in good fertile garden soil. Some irrigation in the summer will keep looking good in the heat. It is more particular about being planted in the right kind of soil than some of the other sedges.
Once established, Texas sedge is drought tolerant and deer resistant. It does not require mowing, but it can be mowed on high setting in late winter if needed. It is a good native substitute for liriope or mondo grass.
AT A GLANCE
Texas native | Yes |
Water use | Low to medium |
Sun exposure | Part sun to shade |
Mature height | 5-10" |
Mature spread | 6-12" |
Evergreen | Semi-evergreen |
Erosion control | Yes |
Deer resistant | Yes |
DISTRIBUTION MAPS
Present in state |
Present in county and native |
Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state |
Not present in state |
Present and rare, native in county |
Previously present, now extinct |
Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color) |