Short's Sedge
Carex shortiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AR, IA, IL, IN and 11 more states
Short's sedge is a clumping native grass that forms neat, upright tufts of narrow green leaves. This well-behaved perennial maintains a compact form and produces small, inconspicuous flower spikes in late spring and summer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Short's 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 nesting material and cover for small birds and beneficial insects. The seeds offer food for songbirds and small mammals throughout fall and winter.
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 Short's Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.