Bicknell'S Sedge
Carex bicknellii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Bicknell's Sedge is a native grass-like perennial found across the northeastern and midwestern United States. This adaptable sedge blooms from May through July and provides habitat for native bees.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Bicknell'S Sedge as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AR, CT, DE, IA and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees
Bicknell's sedge is a native bunch grass that forms neat clumps with narrow, arching foliage. It produces small, inconspicuous flower spikes in late spring and summer, then goes dormant in winter.
Growing Bicknell'S Sedge
Grow Bicknell'S Sedge in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bicknell'S Sedge is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Goes dormant in winter, leaving brown stubble until spring
Wildlife value
This sedge provides nectar for native bees during its bloom period. The seeds also feed various songbirds in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- Where does Bicknell's Sedge naturally grow?
- Bicknell's Sedge is native to 24 states across the northeastern, midwestern, and select southeastern regions of the United States, including states from Maine to North Dakota and south to South Carolina.
- When does Carex bicknellii bloom?
- Bicknell's Sedge produces flowers from May through July, with peak blooming typically occurring in late spring to early summer.
- What pollinators visit Bicknell's Sedge?
- Native bees are the primary pollinators of Bicknell's Sedge, making this plant valuable for supporting local bee populations.
- What growing conditions does Carex bicknellii prefer?
- This sedge is quite adaptable, tolerating full sun to partial sun conditions and a wide range of moisture levels from wet to dry soils.
- Is Bicknell'S Sedge toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Bicknell'S Sedge as toxic to livestock.
- Is Bicknell'S Sedge HOA-friendly?
- Bicknell'S Sedge is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Bicknell'S Sedge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz