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Davis' Sedge

Carex davisii

Last reviewed: June 2026

Davis' Sedge is a native forb found across the eastern and central United States, blooming from May through July in partially shaded locations with medium moisture.

Davis' Sedge (Carex davisii)
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AR, CT, DE, IA and 20 more states

Davis' sedge is a native clumping grass-like perennial that forms neat, compact mounds of narrow green foliage. It produces small, inconspicuous flower spikes in late spring and early summer, thriving in partial shade with moderate moisture.

Growing Davis' Sedge

Grow Davis' Sedge in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 6 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Davis' Sedge is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

This sedge provides habitat and food for various wildlife, though it is not a major pollinator plant. The seeds may attract small birds and the foliage can provide cover for beneficial insects.

Common questions

Where does Davis' Sedge grow naturally?
Davis' Sedge is native to 25 states across the eastern and central United States, from Massachusetts south to Texas and west to Kansas and Minnesota.
When does Carex davisii bloom?
Davis' Sedge blooms during late spring and early summer, typically from May through July.
What growing conditions does Davis' Sedge prefer?
This sedge thrives in partially shaded areas with medium moisture levels, making it well-suited for woodland gardens and naturalized areas.
What type of plant is Carex davisii?
Davis' Sedge is classified as a forb, which is a herbaceous flowering plant that is not a grass.
Is Davis' Sedge HOA-friendly?
Davis' Sedge is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

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 Davis' Sedge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz