Plant Guide

Carex pansa

• Common Name

  California Meadow Sedge
• CA Native

  California Native
• Plant Type

  Grass or grass-like plant
• Size

  4" - 8"
• Flower Color

  1/8" Wide Glossy Green Leaves
• Bloom Time

  • Spring
• Leaves

  Narrow Green 6" - 8" High if Unmowed
• Evergreen

  Evergreen
• Deer Resistant

  Rarely Damaged
• Wildlife Value

  N / A
• Growth Rate

  Moderate
• Hardiness

  Hardy
• Adverse Growth Factors

  Invasive
• Special Features

  • Erosion Control
  • Low Maintenance
• Water Use

  • Drought Tolerant
• Soil pH

  6.5-7.5 (neutral)
• Exposure

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Shade
  • Shade
• Soil Type

  Not Particular
• Drainage

  Well Drained
• Description and Cultural Plant Tips

  According to John Greenlee, this is a great lawn substitute.  Dark green and glossy with tiny spring flower spikes, it has a tousled, swirly appearance if left unmowed but can be occasionally mowed for a more subdued lawn look.  It is evergreen with enough water with little discoloration.  It can be drought tolerant but will go summer dormant in dry hot areas without occasional water.  Loves full sun but tolerates light shade.  Good soil stabilizer.  It is good for dog runs or children's play areas.  It tolerates heavy soils, coastal conditions.

• Master Gardener Comments

  This grass is best established by plugs although propagation is easy by division.  This Carex is worth a try for areas where you have a lawn because of its low water requirements.  Untidy in a charming, floppy way it adds character and texture to the landscape.  Occasionally its spreading nature needs to be contained.

• Varietals

  N / A