Skip to main content

Livid Sedge

Carex livida

Last reviewed: June 2026

Livid Sedge (Carex livida)
Photo: Hurd, E.G., N.L. Shaw, J. Mastrogiuseppe, L.C. Smithman, and S. Goodrich. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Livid Sedge as toxic to livestock.

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

Coast Range

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.

Common questions

How much sun does Livid Sedge need?
Livid Sedge grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Livid Sedge bloom?
Livid Sedge blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Livid Sedge native?
Livid Sedge (Carex livida) is native to CA, CO, IN, MA and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Livid Sedge toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Livid Sedge as toxic to livestock.
Is Livid Sedge HOA-friendly?
Livid Sedge takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

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 Livid Sedge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Add this plant to your garden
iPhone appAndroid app

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz