Longhair Sedge
Carex comosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CT and 21 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Longhair sedge is a tall native grass that thrives in wet conditions and partial sun. It forms clumps of arching green foliage and produces distinctive bristly seed heads from late spring through summer. This sedge works well in rain gardens, pond edges, or any area with consistent moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Longhair 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.
- Very tall and can appear unkempt
- Spreads aggressively to form colonies
- Deciduous foliage looks messy in winter
Wildlife value
This sedge provides nesting material and cover for birds, while its seeds feed waterfowl and songbirds. The dense clumps offer shelter for small wildlife in wet garden 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 Longhair Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.