Crested Sedge
Carex cristatella
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, CT, DE, IA and 22 more states
Carex cristatella is a native sedge that forms neat clumps of narrow, arching green foliage. This well-behaved perennial grass produces small flower spikes in late spring and early summer, then goes dormant in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Crested Sedge is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Goes dormant in winter leaving brown foliage
Wildlife value
This sedge provides habitat and food for various small wildlife and insects. The seeds may attract some birds, though it's not a major pollinator plant.
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 Crested Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.