Blunt Spikerush
Eleocharis obtusa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
4"–16" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CO and 39 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Blunt spikerush is a small, grass-like native sedge that forms clumps of slender green stems topped with small brown seed heads. This moisture-loving plant thrives in consistently wet soils and produces inconspicuous blooms from summer through early fall. As an annual, it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Blunt Spikerush takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may create drainage issues
- Very small size and wetland appearance may look out of place in typical landscaping
- Brownish flower spikes can appear weedy to conventional standards
Wildlife value
This sedge provides seeds for waterfowl and small birds, particularly during fall migration. The dense clumps offer nesting material and cover for small wildlife in wetland areas.
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.
Does Blunt Spikerush fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.