Reflexed Sedge
Carex retroflexa
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Reflexed Sedge (Carex retroflexa) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Carex retroflexa is a compact native sedge that forms neat, arching clumps of fine-textured foliage. This shade-tolerant plant produces small, inconspicuous flower spikes in late spring and early summer. It works well as a groundcover or accent plant in partially shaded areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Reflexed 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
The flowers attract small pollinators like bees and beetles during the blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Reflexed Sedge need?
- Reflexed Sedge grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Reflexed Sedge bloom?
- Reflexed Sedge blooms in May and June.
- Where is Reflexed Sedge native?
- Reflexed Sedge (Carex retroflexa) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Reflexed Sedge attract?
- Reflexed Sedge draws bees and beetles.
- Is Reflexed Sedge HOA-friendly?
- Reflexed Sedge is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Reflexed Sedge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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