Carex Muskingumensis 'Oehme'

Oehme's Variegated Palm Sedge

Carex muskingumensis ‘Oehme’ is a cool-season sedge valued for its upright, palm-like foliage highlighted by narrow golden-yellow margins. Leaves are arranged in distinctive whorls along upright stems, creating a soft, layered texture from spring through fall, while small, inconspicuous flower spikes appear in early summer. Its bright variegation and moisture tolerance make it a strong choice for shade gardens and water edges.

Type: Perennial sedge (grass-like)

Mature Size:
Width: 18–24 in
Height: 18–24 in
(10-year size: slowly expanding clumps)

USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Upright, clump-forming with palm-like, layered foliage
Light: Partial shade to full shade (tolerates sun with adequate moisture)
Soil: Moist to wet soils; tolerates average garden soils
Water: Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture

Wildlife: Provides cover; supports beneficial insects


Features & Landscape Uses


Variegated foliage adds brightness to shade



Unique palm-like texture for visual interest



Ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, and moist soils



Excellent for woodland and naturalized plantings




Care
Low-maintenance and easy to grow. Cut back in late winter or early spring to refresh foliage. Prefers consistently moist soils and performs well in wet sites. Divide every few years to maintain vigor and expand plantings.

Plant type

Perennial, Sedge

Height

18-24''

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Leaf color

Asparagus, White

Soil

Clay, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Groundcover, Specimen

Shape

Clumping, Upright

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No