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Sharpscale Sedge

Carex oxylepis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Sharpscale Sedge (Carex oxylepis)
Photo: (c) Michael J. Papay, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Michael J. Papay

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

8"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

AL, AR, FL, GA and 12 more states

Sharpscale sedge is a compact, clumping native grass that forms neat tufts of narrow evergreen foliage. It produces inconspicuous flowers in spring and maintains a tidy appearance year-round, making it an excellent low-maintenance groundcover or accent plant.

In an HOA neighborhood

Sharpscale 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 small wildlife and supports various insects. The seeds are eaten by songbirds and small mammals.

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