Emory's Sedge
Carex emoryi
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AR, AZ, CO, CT and 24 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Emory's sedge is a clumping perennial sedge that forms upright tufts of narrow green leaves. It thrives in moist to wet soils and produces inconspicuous flower spikes in late spring and early summer. The foliage turns tan or brown in winter before new growth emerges in spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Emory's Sedge takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant in winter creating bare spots
- High water needs may appear excessive to neighbors
- Can look unkempt during growing season
Wildlife value
This sedge provides nesting material and cover for birds, while its seeds feed various songbirds and waterfowl. The dense clumps offer shelter for small wildlife and 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 Emory's Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.