Upright Sedge
Carex stricta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Carex stricta is a native sedge found across eastern and central North America that thrives in wet soils and blooms from May through July. This clump-forming grass supports bees and beetles while providing excellent erosion control.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Upright Sedge as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Upright Sedge
Grow Upright Sedge in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Carex stricta naturally grow?
- Carex stricta is native to 35 states across eastern and central North America, from Maine to Texas and from the Atlantic coast to the Great Plains.
- When does Upright Sedge bloom?
- Carex stricta produces flowers from May through July, with small inconspicuous blooms typical of sedges.
- What pollinators visit Carex stricta?
- Upright Sedge attracts bees and beetles, which help with pollination of this wind-pollinated sedge.
- What growing conditions does Carex stricta prefer?
- This sedge thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for rain gardens and wetland areas.
- Is Upright Sedge toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Upright Sedge as toxic to livestock.
- Is Upright Sedge HOA-friendly?
- Upright 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 Upright 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