Northern Sedge
Carex deflexa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 19 more states
A compact native sedge that forms small, neat clumps with fine-textured, arching leaves. This low-growing perennial produces inconspicuous flowers in late spring and maintains a tidy appearance throughout the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northern 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
Provides habitat and nesting material for small birds and beneficial insects. The seeds support songbirds and small mammals.
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 Northern Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.