Bottlebrush Sedge
Carex hystericina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AR, AZ, CO, CT and 27 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bottlebrush sedge is a clumping perennial grass-like plant that forms neat tufts of narrow green leaves. It produces distinctive cylindrical seed heads that resemble bottlebrushes in late spring through summer, giving the plant its common name.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bottlebrush 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 moist to wet conditions that may appear overwatered
- Seed heads can look untidy as they mature and dry
- May go dormant and look brown in dry conditions
Wildlife value
This sedge provides habitat and nesting material for birds, while its seeds feed waterfowl and songbirds. The dense clumps offer shelter for small wildlife and beneficial insects.
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 Bottlebrush Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.