Cattail Sedge
Carex typhina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Carex typhina is a native sedge found across eastern and central United States that thrives in wet soils and blooms May through July. This grass-like perennial grows well in partial sun to shade conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Cattail Sedge as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Cattail Sedge
Grow Cattail Sedge in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Carex typhina naturally grow?
- Carex typhina is native to 31 states across the eastern and central United States, from Maine south to Georgia and west to Minnesota and Texas.
- When does Cattail Sedge bloom?
- Carex typhina blooms from May through July, producing inconspicuous flowers typical of sedges.
- What growing conditions does Carex typhina prefer?
- This sedge thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for rain gardens and wetland areas.
- How can you identify Carex typhina?
- Cattail Sedge has a grass-like growth form with triangular stems characteristic of sedges, and produces cylindrical flower spikes that give it its common name referring to cattails.
- Is Cattail Sedge toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Cattail Sedge as toxic to livestock.
- Is Cattail Sedge HOA-friendly?
- Cattail 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 Cattail Sedge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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