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Richardson Sedge

Carex richardsonii

Last reviewed: June 2026

Richardson Sedge (Carex richardsonii)
Photo: aarongunnar / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

IA, IL, IN, MD and 10 more states

Carex richardsonii is a native sedge that forms neat, compact clumps of fine-textured foliage. This well-behaved perennial produces inconspicuous flowers in late spring and early summer while maintaining an orderly appearance throughout the growing season.

In an HOA neighborhood

Richardson 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 birds and nesting material, while also serving as a host plant for some butterfly larvae. The dense clumps offer shelter for small wildlife and beneficial insects.

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