Carex pansa
California Meadow Sedge
Description
This native Carex can be successfully used as a lawn substitute but requires significant water to obtain good coverage. Once coverage is reached, water can be reduced and maintenance is close to zero. Unmowed, the plant can be used effectively in a variety of conditions and will reach a height of 6" or under and spreads by rhizomes eventually to 2' +.
Plant Type
Perennial, Grass
Height Range
Under 1'
Width Range
1-3'
Flower Color
n/a
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Half
Water
Medium
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Rich, Moist
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Meadow, Seascape, Water Garden, Wetlands, Wild Garden
Accenting Features
n/a
Seasonal Interest
n/a
Location Uses
Swimming Pool, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Lawn Substitute, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs.
If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.