Bottle Sedge
Carex rostrata
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Bottle Sedge as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–40" H × 8"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
ME, MI, MN, MT and 4 more states
Bottle sedge is a clumping wetland grass that forms dense tufts of narrow green leaves. It thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and produces distinctive bottle-shaped seed heads in summer. This sedge is best suited for rain gardens, pond edges, or other water-retention areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bottle Sedge takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet conditions that are unusual in typical landscapes
- Can appear unkempt and weedy to those unfamiliar with native sedges
- May spread aggressively in ideal wet conditions
Wildlife value
The dense clumps provide nesting habitat and cover for waterfowl and small birds. Seeds are eaten by various songbirds and waterfowl.
Common questions
- How much sun does Bottle Sedge need?
- Bottle Sedge grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Bottle Sedge bloom?
- Bottle Sedge blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Bottle Sedge native?
- Bottle Sedge (Carex rostrata) is native to ME, MI, MN, MT and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Bottle Sedge toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Bottle Sedge as toxic to livestock.
- Is Bottle Sedge HOA-friendly?
- Bottle Sedge takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Bottle 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