Carex aperta (Columbian Sedge)

Plant Description: Carex aperta is a native sedge that endures seasonal flooding. Columbian sedge grows male, female, and sometime androgynous spiked blooms at the end of its blade that produce a seed enjoyed by birds. 

• Height: 1-3ft
• Width: 1-2ft
• Watering needs: moist to wet
  
• Sun needs: full sun to part shade 
• Soil needs: Wet, seasonally flooding
• Bloom Time: July-August
• Portland Plant List (Backyard Habitat Certification): No

Landscape Use and Ecological Function: Carex aperta grows best in very wet locations with seasonal flooding and dryer summers. We suggest utlizing this plant in ditches, bioswales, rain gardens, and wet meadows. Columbian sedge grows well on it's own, but can be found in conjunction with Red Elderberry, Willows, Oregon Ash, and Douglas Spiraea.