Pennsylvania Sedge is a graceful native sedge that forms a soft, flowing carpet of fine green foliage, making it one of the best lawn alternatives and woodland groundcovers for New England landscapes. Unlike traditional turf grass, this low-maintenance native thrives beneath mature trees, in dry shade, and in difficult areas where grass struggles to grow.
Naturally found throughout the northeastern United States, Pennsylvania Sedge spreads slowly by rhizomes to create a natural-looking woodland floor while requiring very little maintenance. Its exceptional shade tolerance, drought resistance once established, and native habitat value make it an outstanding choice for sustainable landscapes throughout New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine.
Key Features
Excellent native lawn alternative
Thrives in dry shade
Fine-textured soft green foliage
Slowly spreads into a natural groundcover
Low maintenance once established
Supports native ecosystems
Specs
Mature Height: 8–12 in
Mature Width: Spreads by rhizomes to form colonies
Sun: Part shade to full shade (tolerates morning sun)
Growth Rate: Moderate
Zone: 3a; 3b; 4a; 4b; 5a; 5b; 6a; 6b; 7a; 7b; 8a
Form: Fine-textured, colony-forming groundcover
Spacing Guidance
12–18 in on center
10–12 in on center for faster coverage
Excellent for:
Woodland gardens
Lawn alternatives
Under mature trees
Naturalized landscapes
Hillsides
Native plant gardens
Shade borders
Why Add Ornamental Grasses to Your Landscape?
Low Maintenance Performance: Most ornamental grasses require minimal pruning and thrive with little upkeep once established.
Movement & Texture: Flowing blades and feathery plumes create dynamic visual interest that changes with light and wind.
Four-Season Appeal: From summer greenery to fall plumes and winter structure, grasses provide year-round landscape impact.
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It helps us recommend plants that are best for your local climate, based on your growing zone. Also, because we ship plants based on when they are best for your local climate, it allows us to give you a more accurate estimate of when your order will ship.
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Pro Growers of New England, Inc
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Top notch service and product quality. I didn’t know what to expect seeing the ads on Facebook, so I went to the greenhouse. They had a wonderful variety of products and a very helpful staff. The delivery and installers were fast, neat and friendly. Pro Growers will be me go to for now on!
Emerald Green Arborvitae
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Installation Service ($25)
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