Tall Flatsedge
Cyperus eragrostis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, CA, FL, LA and 7 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tall flatsedge is a native sedge that forms clumps of narrow, grass-like foliage reaching up to 3 feet tall. It produces small brown flower clusters from late spring through fall and thrives in consistently moist to wet conditions. This plant works well in rain gardens, pond edges, and other areas with regular water availability.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tall Flatsedge takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Appears wild and unmaintained to untrained eyes
- Brown seed heads can look messy
- May be mistaken for weedy grass or volunteer vegetation
Wildlife value
The seed heads provide food for birds, particularly waterfowl and songbirds. The dense clumps offer nesting sites and cover for 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 Tall Flatsedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.