Golden Sedge
Carex aurea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 24 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Golden sedge is a compact native grass-like plant that forms small, tidy clumps with narrow green leaves. It produces delicate golden-brown flower spikes in late spring and summer, adding subtle texture to garden beds.
In an HOA neighborhood
Golden 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
This sedge provides nesting material for birds and seeds for small wildlife. As a native grass, it supports various insects and provides habitat structure in naturalized areas.
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 Golden Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.