Ribbed Sedge
Carex virescens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Ribbed sedge is a clumping native grass that forms neat, upright tufts of narrow green leaves. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in late spring and early summer, then goes dormant in winter. This sedge works well as a low-maintenance groundcover or accent plant in partially shaded areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Ribbed Sedge is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- May look sparse when dormant in winter
Wildlife value
The flowers attract small pollinators like bees and beetles in late spring. Seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Ribbed Sedge need?
- Ribbed Sedge grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Ribbed Sedge bloom?
- Ribbed Sedge blooms in May and June.
- Where is Ribbed Sedge native?
- Ribbed Sedge (Carex virescens) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 22 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Ribbed Sedge attract?
- Ribbed Sedge draws bees and beetles.
- Is Ribbed Sedge HOA-friendly?
- Ribbed Sedge is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Ribbed Sedge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz