Jointed-Spike Sedge
Carex athrostachya
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Jointed-Spike Sedge as toxic to livestock.
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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Jointed-Spike Sedge need?
- Jointed-Spike Sedge grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Jointed-Spike Sedge bloom?
- Jointed-Spike Sedge blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Jointed-Spike Sedge native?
- Jointed-Spike Sedge (Carex athrostachya) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 10 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Jointed-Spike Sedge toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Jointed-Spike Sedge as toxic to livestock.
- Is Jointed-Spike Sedge HOA-friendly?
- Jointed-Spike Sedge is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Jointed-Spike Sedge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz