Jointed-Spike Sedge
Carex athrostachya
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 10 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Carex athrostachya is a clumping native sedge that forms neat, compact tufts of slender green foliage. This drought-tolerant grass grows in a well-behaved mounding habit and produces inconspicuous flower spikes in late spring and early summer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Jointed-Spike 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 habitat and nesting material for small birds and ground-dwelling wildlife. The seeds offer food for songbirds and small mammals in late summer.
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 Jointed-Spike Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.