Few-flower Spike-rush
Eleocharis quinqueflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, IA and 23 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Few-flower spike-rush is a small native sedge that forms compact clumps with thin, grass-like stems. It produces small brownish flower spikes in summer and thrives in consistently moist to wet soils. This plant is best suited for water gardens, rain gardens, or naturally wet areas of the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Few-flower Spike-rush takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very small size makes it appear sparse in formal settings
- Grass-like appearance may be mistaken for weeds
- Unconventional choice that most HOAs would question
Wildlife value
This spike-rush provides seeds for waterfowl and small birds. It also offers nesting material and shelter for wetland wildlife.
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 Few-flower Spike-rush fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.