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Northern Singlespike Sedge

Carex scirpoidea

Last reviewed: June 2026

Northern Singlespike Sedge (Carex scirpoidea)
Photo: (c) er-birds, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by er-birds

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–16" H × 3"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

CA, CO, ID, ME and 13 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Northern singlespike sedge is a compact, low-growing native grass that forms small clumps with narrow green foliage. This drought-tolerant perennial produces distinctive single flower spikes from late spring through summer and thrives in full sun conditions.

In an HOA neighborhood

Northern Singlespike 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 seeds for small birds and ground-nesting habitat. The flowers support various small insects and native bees during the blooming period.

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 Singlespike Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.