Rock Sedge
Carex saxatilis
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Rock Sedge (Carex saxatilis) 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.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Rock Sedge as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
OR
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 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Carex saxatilis is a native sedge that forms neat clumps of narrow, arching green foliage. It produces small flower spikes in late spring and early summer, thriving in moist, partially shaded locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rock 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 habitat and nesting material for birds and supports various insects. The seeds are eaten by waterfowl and songbirds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Rock Sedge need?
- Rock Sedge grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Rock Sedge bloom?
- Rock Sedge blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Rock Sedge native?
- Rock Sedge (Carex saxatilis) is native to OR, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Rock Sedge toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Rock Sedge as toxic to livestock.
- Is Rock Sedge HOA-friendly?
- Rock 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 Rock 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