Foetid Sedge
Carex vernacula
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CA, CO, ID, OR and 2 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Carex vernacula is a compact native sedge that forms neat, low clumps of fine-textured foliage. This drought-tolerant grass grows in tidy mounds and works well as a groundcover or accent plant in partial sun locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Foetid 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
Like other native sedges, it provides habitat and nesting material for small wildlife and may support some native insects, though specific pollinator relationships are not well documented.
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 Foetid Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.