Carex platyphylla

A small, grasslike plant found in shady spots under trees, Broadleaf Sedge sets itself apart from other sedges with its wide leaves. Just under a foot tall, this moderately deer resistant perennial can be used as a groundcover or a border in a woodland garden given it is not walked on, as it doesn’t do well with foot traffic. White to green flower spikes presenting in spring are insignificant, and this plant is often grown for the handsome blue tinted leaves that are displayed all year. These leaves provide cover for small animals, and the seeds are enjoyed by songbirds and small mammals alike. Growing under trees in woodlands where leaf litter builds up over time, Broadleaf Sedge thrives in soil with high organic matter that stays moist. Once it has had time to get established, it can be drought resistant given it is growing where it has respite from the harsh sun. This plant is a host to caterpillars of Satyr butterflies.