Umbrella Sedge
Cyperus iria
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
4"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CT and 19 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Umbrella sedge is a small annual grass-like plant with distinctive umbrella-shaped flower clusters that bloom from summer through early fall. It thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and partial sun conditions. This compact sedge typically stays under 2 feet tall with a neat, upright growth habit.
In an HOA neighborhood
Umbrella 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.
- Grass-like appearance may be mistaken for weeds
- Annual nature creates gaps when plants die back
- Requires consistently wet soil which may appear unkempt
Wildlife value
The seed heads provide food for birds, particularly waterfowl and songbirds in late summer and fall. The plant structure offers shelter for small beneficial insects.
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 Umbrella Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.