Hop Sedge
Carex lupulina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Hop sedge is a native wetland grass that forms attractive clumps with arching green foliage. It produces distinctive hop-like seed heads in summer that give the plant its common name. This moisture-loving sedge works well in rain gardens and naturally wet areas of the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hop Sedge 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.
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may not fit typical lawn aesthetics
- Can appear unkempt when dormant in winter
- Seed heads may be considered messy by conservative HOAs
Wildlife value
The seeds provide food for waterfowl and songbirds. As a host plant for several butterfly species, it supports lepidoptera larvae and offers nesting material for birds.
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 Hop Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.