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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)

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 432 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.

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

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