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Pine Barren Flatsedge

Cyperus retrorsus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Pine Barren Flatsedge (Cyperus retrorsus)
Photo: James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

6"–24" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, DE, FL and 15 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Oklahoma/Texas PlainsEdwards PlateauTexas Blackland PrairiesEast Central Texas PlainsWestern Gulf Coastal PlainSouth Central Plains

Cyperus retrorsus is a native sedge that forms compact clumps of grass-like foliage. It produces small, inconspicuous flower clusters from summer through early fall and thrives in partially sunny locations with consistent moisture.

In an HOA neighborhood

Pine Barren Flatsedge 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.

  • Grass-like appearance may be mistaken for weeds
  • Unconventional plant choice for typical landscaping
  • May look unkempt during dormant season

Wildlife value

This sedge provides habitat and nesting material for birds. The seeds may attract small songbirds, though it is not a major pollinator plant.

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

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