Water Sedge vs Showy Aster - TreeTime.ca

Water Sedge vs Showy Aster

Carex aquatilis

Eurybia conspicua

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Water Sedge
Showy Aster

Water Sedge is a waterside grass which grows an extensive horizontal root system. This prevents erosion and allows it to grow back after being eaten.

Water sedge is grazed by many animals including cattle, sheep, horses and waterfowl. Animals choose Water Sedge for forage later in the year as it stays green longer than other plants, requiring you to buy feed for less of the year.

Showy Aster is a native perennial wildflower recognized for its tall stems topped with clusters of light purple blooms. Blooming from late summer into autumn, it provides an important late-season source of nectar and pollen for pollinators. It also produces seeds that are eaten by birds, extending its value to wildlife beyond the flowering season.

Drought tolerant once established, Showy Aster grows well in urban, rural, and disturbed sites. With its mix of ecological value and ornamental appeal, it is ideal for pollinator gardens, naturalization projects, and ecological restoration.

Water Sedge Quick Facts

Showy Aster Quick Facts

Zone: 1a
Zone: 2b
Height: 0.9 m (3 ft)
Height: 0.6 m (2.0 ft)
Spread: 0.5 m (1.5 ft)
Spread: 0.5 m (1.5 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: wet
Moisture: any
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: short
Growth form: upright, colony-forming
Spreading: rhizomes - medium, seeds - medium
Suckering: medium


Foliage: long thin leaves
Flowers: green and brown
Flowers: purple-blue, with yellow centers
Bloom time: late summer to early fall
Seeds: achenes
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, NU, PE
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB
Other Names: leafy tussock sedge
Other Names: western showy aster