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Great Plains Flatsedge

Cyperus lupulinus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Great Plains Flatsedge (Cyperus lupulinus)
Photo: (c) aarongunnar, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by aarongunnar

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

6"–24" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AR, CO, CT, DE and 28 more states

Great Plains flatsedge is a compact native sedge that forms neat clumps of narrow, grass-like foliage. It produces small, inconspicuous flower clusters from summer through early fall and thrives in sunny locations with moderate moisture.

In an HOA neighborhood

Great Plains Flatsedge 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.

  • Sedges often perceived as weedy by HOAs
  • Uncommon plant may raise questions
  • Can look untidy during dormant season

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 Great Plains Flatsedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.