Grass Sedge
Carex jamesii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, IA, IL and 21 more states
Grass sedge is a low-growing native sedge that forms small, tidy clumps with narrow, grass-like leaves. It blooms inconspicuously in spring with small clusters of flowers and thrives in partial shade with average moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Grass Sedge is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Goes dormant in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
This sedge provides habitat and food for various insects and small wildlife, though it is not a major pollinator plant due to its wind-pollinated flowers.
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 Grass Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.