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Carolina Fimbry

Fimbristylis puberula

Last reviewed: June 2026

Carolina Fimbry (Fimbristylis puberula)
Photo: (c) Jay Horn, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Jay Horn

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, AZ, CO and 26 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Fimbristylis puberula is a small native sedge that forms compact clumps of narrow, grass-like foliage. It produces small brown flower clusters from summer through early fall and thrives in sunny, dry conditions. This low-maintenance perennial works well as a textural accent in native plantings.

In an HOA neighborhood

Carolina Fimbry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Grass-like appearance may look weedy to untrained eyes
  • Brown flower clusters lack visual appeal
  • Unknown dormant season appearance creates uncertainty

Wildlife value

The flowers attract bees and beetles during the long summer blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife.

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 Carolina Fimbry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.