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Eastern Star Sedge

Carex radiata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Eastern Star Sedge (Carex radiata)
Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

8"–18" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 29 more states

Eastern star sedge is a native clumping sedge that forms neat, low mounds of narrow green foliage. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring and grows well in partial shade with average moisture.

In an HOA neighborhood

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

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

  • May look sparse when first establishing

Wildlife value

This sedge provides cover and nesting material for small wildlife. As a native grass-like plant, it offers food for seed-eating birds and habitat for beneficial insects.

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