Description
Product Description
Dichromena latifolia (Rhynchospora Colorata) (White-Top Sedge, White Star Grass) is a striking, moisture-loving sedge famed for its starry white bracts that surround small, tan flower clusters from summer into early fall. Fine, bright-green leaves form tidy clumps that bring clean texture to pond margins, rain gardens, and wet swales. Built for moist to wet soils—and tolerant of shallow standing water—White-Top Sedge offers long-season brightness, habitat value, and minimal upkeep in warm climates.
Quick-Glance Specs
| Attribute | Details |
| Botanical Name | Dichromena latifolia (Rhynchospora Colorata) |
| Common Name | White-Top Sedge |
| Plant Type | Perennial sedge (Cyperaceae) |
| Native/Non-native | Native to the Southeastern U.S. |
| Hardiness Zone | 7–11 |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to part shade (best bloom in sun) |
| Moisture | Moist to wet; tolerates shallow standing water |
| Mature Height | 12–24″ foliage; 18–30″ in bloom |
| Mature Spread | 12–24″ clump (short rhizomes; non-aggressive) |
| Growth Habit | Clumping; slowly colony-forming in ideal conditions |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Fragrance | None |
| Bloom Time | Summer to early fall (white star-like bracts with green midribs) |
| Seasonal Interest | Summer–fall display; semi-evergreen in warm zones |
| Foliage & Features | Fine green blades; showy white, petal-like bracts around inflorescences |
| Landscape Features | Stormwater performance; erosion control; wildlife cover |
| Landscape Uses | Pond/stream margins, rain gardens, bioswales, wet meadows, containers |
| Soil | Sandy to loamy; tolerates clay if not stagnant |
| Water Needs | Medium to wet |
| Maintenance | Low; comb or cut back old foliage late winter/early spring |
| Deer/Pest Resistance | Generally deer resistant; few serious pests |
| Container Friendly | Excellent in large, moisture-retentive containers |
| Recommended Spacing | 12–18″ for cohesive, sparkling drifts |
Care & Growing Information
- Site & Light: Plant in full sun for the strongest bloom and tight habit; part shade acceptable, especially in heat.
- Soil & Water: Prefers moist to saturated soils; thrives at pond shoulders, swales, and rain-garden basins. Handles 1–3″ of periodic standing water; avoid chronically stagnant, anoxic conditions.
- Planting: Set crowns at or just above grade along shorelines; irrigate regularly the first season.
- Maintenance: Low-care. Leave bracts for seasonal interest; comb or cut back tired foliage in late winter/early spring. Minimal fertilizer—overfeeding can relax the form.
- Design Tips: Use as a bright edging along water paths, or mass for a white “star field” effect among moisture-loving irises, rushes, and native sedges.
Key Features
- Distinctive white star bracts for high visual impact
- Moist–wet soil specialist; tolerates shallow standing water
- Useful for stormwater plantings and light erosion control
- Deer resistant and easy to maintain
- Semi-evergreen texture in warm climates
Problems
- Few notable issues. Flopping may occur in deep shade or overly rich soils; provide sun and moderate fertility. Tip browning can occur if allowed to dry out—maintain even moisture.
Uses in the Landscape
- Rain gardens, bioswales, and stormwater forebays
- Pond/stream margins and wetland edges
- Moist meadows and naturalized low spots
- Containers near water features for a crisp, modern accent
Availability / Ordering
- Sizes Offered: #1 Gallon, 4″, DP-50 Plug
- Recommended Spacing: 12–18″ for sparkling white drifts and good airflow.
Why You’ll Love It
- Eye-catching white “flowers” (bracts) that brighten wet areas
- Site-smart performer for rain gardens and shorelines
- Minimal upkeep—annual comb-out or cutback keeps plants fresh
Quick Highlights
A moisture-loving sedge with starry white bracts—White-Top Sedge delivers bright seasonal interest, stormwater performance, and low maintenance for sunny pond edges and rain gardens.
