Threeway Sedge
Dulichium arundinaceum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Dulichium arundinaceum (Threeway Sedge) is a native wetland grass found across most US states that blooms June through August in wet soils and partial sun to shade conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Threeway Sedge as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CT and 36 more states
Threeway sedge is a native wetland grass that forms upright clumps with narrow, arching leaves. It produces small brown flower clusters in summer and thrives in consistently moist to wet soil conditions. This sedge works well in rain gardens, pond edges, and other water-retentive areas.
Growing Threeway Sedge
Grow Threeway Sedge in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Threeway 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.
- Looks very wild and unmanicured
- Requires constant moisture which can create muddy conditions
- May appear weedy to those unfamiliar with native sedges
Wildlife value
This sedge provides habitat and nesting material for waterfowl and supports various insects. The seeds are eaten by ducks and other water birds.
Common questions
- Where does Threeway Sedge grow naturally?
- Dulichium arundinaceum is native to most US states from coast to coast, including wetland areas in the Southeast, Midwest, Northeast, and parts of the West.
- What growing conditions does Threeway Sedge need?
- This sedge requires consistently wet to saturated soils and grows best in partial sun to shaded conditions, making it ideal for pond edges, marshes, and wet meadows.
- When does Dulichium arundinaceum bloom?
- Threeway Sedge produces its flowers during the summer months of June, July, and August.
- Is Threeway Sedge toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Threeway Sedge as toxic to livestock.
- Is Threeway Sedge HOA-friendly?
- Threeway Sedge takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Threeway Sedge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz