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Squarrose Sedge

Carex squarrosa

Last reviewed: June 2026

Squarrose Sedge (Carex squarrosa)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states

Squarrose sedge is a native grass-like perennial that forms neat clumps with arching green foliage. It produces distinctive spiky seed heads from late spring through summer and tolerates partial shade well. The plant goes dormant in winter, turning brown before new growth emerges in spring.

In an HOA neighborhood

Squarrose Sedge takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Requires consistently high water which may appear overwatered in maintained landscapes
  • Bristly seed heads can look unkempt to conventional standards
  • Unknown dormancy appearance creates uncertainty

Wildlife value

This sedge provides nesting material and cover for birds, while its seeds feed various songbirds in fall and winter. The foliage offers habitat for beneficial insects and small wildlife.

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

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