String Sedge
Carex chordorrhiza
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
IA, IL, IN, ME and 10 more states
String sedge is a low-growing native grass that forms dense mats in wet areas. It thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and produces small flower spikes in late spring and summer.
In an HOA neighborhood
String Sedge takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may create maintenance issues
- Very informal appearance doesn't match typical landscaping expectations
- Can spread aggressively and look uncontrolled
Wildlife value
This sedge provides habitat for wetland wildlife and its seeds may feed small birds, though it's not a major pollinator plant.
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 String Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.