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Threadleaf Sedge

Carex filifolia

Last reviewed: August 2026

Threadleaf Sedge (Carex filifolia)
Photo: (c) Matt Lavin, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Toxicity unknown

Threadleaf Sedge (Carex filifolia) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Threadleaf Sedge as toxic to livestock.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 12 more states

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 452 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Threadleaf sedge is a compact native grass that forms dense, low-growing tufts of extremely fine, hair-like green foliage. This drought-tolerant evergreen perennial produces small flowers in late spring and summer while maintaining a neat, cushioned appearance year-round. It works well as a textural accent or groundcover in sunny, dry locations.

In an HOA neighborhood

Threadleaf 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 birds and beneficial insects. The seeds support various songbirds and small mammals.

Common questions

How much sun does Threadleaf Sedge need?
Threadleaf Sedge grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Threadleaf Sedge bloom?
Threadleaf Sedge blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Threadleaf Sedge native?
Threadleaf Sedge (Carex filifolia) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 12 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
Is Threadleaf Sedge toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Threadleaf Sedge as toxic to livestock.
Is Threadleaf Sedge HOA-friendly?
Threadleaf Sedge is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.

See all plant problem guides

Ready to grow Threadleaf Sedge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Planning a bed around it? Start a free plan with this plant

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz