Hare's-foot Sedge
carex leporina
Also known as: ["Eared Sedge","Leporinus Sedge"]
Overview
A perennial sedge with arching, grass-like leaves and inconspicuous flowers arranged in spikelets.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Genus: | Carex |
| Botanical Name: | Carex leporina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Moist, well-draining soil with organic matter; prefers loamy or sandy soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light but thrives with dappled sunlight or bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; ideal for shaded garden spots or indoor areas with indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for indoor light filtering.
Watering
every 7–10 days
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–7.0.
Ensure good aeration; maintain consistent moisture; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions and can tolerate frost.
Protect from extreme heat; maintain consistent moisture; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during growing season
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division is the most effective method; separate clumps in spring or early fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up the clump.
- Separate into smaller sections with roots.
- Replant immediately.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active flowering.
Environment
Cool, shaded environment with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining garden soil or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not required for division.
Timeline
Immediate establishment after division; no rooting period needed.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves.
Quick Tips
Divide every 2–3 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has healthy roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; use clean tools; remove only necessary foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Increase frequency during active growth in spring and summer; reduce in fall and winter.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for moisture retention; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, browning leaf tips, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or mushy roots in cold, waterlogged soil.
Cold Stress
Cold stress can cause root rot if soil remains wet; however, the plant is generally hardy to cold temperatures.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; avoid overwatering in cold weather; provide mulch for insulation in winter.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or browning, especially if combined with dry soil.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but less frequently to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCarex leporina is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would harm felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCarex leporina is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCarex leporina, commonly known as bunny sedge, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a grass-like plant that does not produce any known toxic compounds.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Carex leporina toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It tolerates shade and can thrive in partial to full shade conditions.
Q: How often should I water Carex leporina?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; it is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days |
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