Cattail Sedge
Carex typhina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cattail sedge is a clumping native grass that forms neat tufts of arching green foliage. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers from late spring through summer and requires consistently moist soil to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cattail Sedge 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.
- High water requirements make it impractical for most landscapes
- May appear unkempt during winter dormancy
- Grass-like appearance could be mistaken for weedy growth
Wildlife value
This sedge provides important cover and nesting material for birds, while its seeds feed various songbirds and waterfowl.
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 Cattail Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.