False Fox-sedge
carex otrubae
Also known as: ["False Fox-sedge","Dwarf Fox-sedge"]
Overview
A perennial grass-like plant belonging to the Cyperaceae family, known for its tufted growth habit and green, linear leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Genus: | Carex |
| Botanical Name: | Carex otrubae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container with consistent moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; prefers consistently moist soil.
- Soil Type: Moist, fertile, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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 for 3–4 hours daily.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf scorch; ideal for shaded garden beds or indoor areas with indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; prefers shade; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water more during active growth and less in dormancy.
Soil
moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; amend with organic matter; ensure good drainage.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); performs well in cooler climates and may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from extreme heat; mulch in winter; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; stop in cooler months.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root balls; can also be propagated from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into smaller sections with roots.
- Replant immediately.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seed propagation.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 2–4 weeks, maturation in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, trowel, gloves, clean containers.
Quick Tips
Divide every 2–3 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has healthy roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Hand-pull or cut dead foliage at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Hand pruners, gloves.
Checklist
Inspect for dead leaves; remove carefully; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; replant 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
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and moisture retention; incorporate perlite for aeration if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, browning leaf tips, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or mushy roots in cold, waterlogged conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration in prolonged cold; tolerates frost but roots can suffer in frozen, waterlogged soil.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot; provide a layer of mulch for insulation in winter.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, turn brown, or dry out in intense heat; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCarex otrubae is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCarex otrubae is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCarex otrubae, commonly known as false wood sedge, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic compounds or physiological effects when ingested in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Carex otrubae toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Carex otrubae require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade and can tolerate shade.
Q: Is Carex otrubae invasive?
A: It can spread moderately but is not typically considered highly invasive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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