Globe Flatsedge
Cyperus echinatus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 23 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cyperus echinatus is a small annual sedge with grass-like foliage and distinctive spiky seed heads that appear in summer. This compact plant grows in clumps and produces umbrella-like clusters of brown flowers that mature into ornamental seed heads.
In an HOA neighborhood
Globe Flatsedge 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.
- Grass-like appearance may be mistaken for weeds
- Annual nature means gaps will appear when plants die
- Spiky seed heads can look unkempt to traditional gardeners
Wildlife value
The seed heads provide food for small birds and the plant may attract some beneficial insects during its flowering period.
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 Globe Flatsedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.