Leatherleaf sedge (Carex buchananii)

Photo: Forest and Kim Starr, CC BY 3.0 us · source

Pruning guide · Ornamental grass

Leatherleaf sedge: when and how to prune

Carex buchananii

Leatherleaf sedge is best pruned in March–April.

Key facts
Pruning monthsMarch–April
FloweringJune–July
Native to BelgiumNo, planted

Leatherleaf sedge: when to prune it?

It is not cut back. In March–April, simply comb out the old, dead leaves.

What else to prune in those months? March · April

Leatherleaf sedge: how to prune it?

  1. Run gloved hands or a small rake through the clump to remove loose, dead leaves.
  2. Cut off only leaves that are truly withered, at the base.
  3. Never cut the clump down: an evergreen sedge recovers poorly.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • One pruning period a year: March–April.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • If you only cut back in March–April, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.

Caution: The brown foliage is not dead; it is its natural colour. Wear gloves when combing it out: the leaf edges can be rough.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Plant profile: Leatherleaf sedge · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

Laden…