Upright Sedge
Carex stricta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, CT, DE, IA and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Upright sedge is a tall, clumping native grass that forms dense, fountain-like tufts of narrow green leaves. It produces small, inconspicuous flower clusters in late spring and early summer, then goes dormant in winter with tan foliage.
In an HOA neighborhood
Upright 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.
- Very tall height may appear unkempt
- Requires consistently moist soil which limits placement options
- Dormant winter appearance can look messy
Wildlife value
This sedge provides nectar for bees and beetles during its spring and summer bloom period. The dense clumps offer nesting habitat and cover for small birds and 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 Upright Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.