Carex squarrosa, commonly known as Squarrose Sedge, is a native perennial sedge found in wet meadows, prairies, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in moist to wet soils and prefers partial to light shade.
This plant features long, arching, grass-like leaves and produces distinctive, nodding flower heads that are covered with long, bristly, spreading spikes. The flowers appear in late spring to early summer, followed by seeds that provide food for birds and other wildlife. Its dense root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion in wetland habitats.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Carex squarrosa is an excellent choice for rain gardens, wetland restorations, and naturalized landscapes, offering soil stabilization, wildlife habitat, and unique texture in moist environments.
Carex squarrosa, commonly known as Squarrose Sedge, is a native perennial sedge found in wet meadows, prairies, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in moist to wet soils and prefers partial to light shade.
This plant features long, arching, grass-like leaves and produces distinctive, nodding flower heads that are covered with long, bristly, spreading spikes. The flowers appear in late spring to early summer, followed by seeds that provide food for birds and other wildlife. Its dense root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion in wetland habitats.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Carex squarrosa is an excellent choice for rain gardens, wetland restorations, and naturalized landscapes, offering soil stabilization, wildlife habitat, and unique texture in moist environments.
Bloom: late spring to mid-summer
Habitats: gravelly seeps; prairie swales; sedge meadows; swamps; wetlands of bottomland woodlands
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: wet to moist
Plant type (height): sedge (1.25 to 2.5 feet)
Requirements: partial sun to light shade
Soil: gravel; loam; sand; silt
