Livid Sedge
Carex livida
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, IN, MA and 12 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Livid sedge is a small, fine-textured sedge that forms compact clumps in moist, shaded areas. This delicate native grass grows slowly and maintains a neat appearance throughout the growing season. It produces inconspicuous flowers from May through July and thrives in consistently moist soil conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Livid Sedge takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires high water which conflicts with xeriscape expectations
- May appear weedy or unkempt to unfamiliar viewers
- Dormant appearance in winter can look messy
Wildlife value
This sedge provides habitat and nesting material for small birds and beneficial insects. While not a major pollinator plant, it supports various small insects and contributes to overall ecosystem health in wet areas.
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 Livid Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.