Carex squarrosa aka Squarrose Sedge

Carex squarrosa is a sedge that lives for many years. It belongs to the sedge family, Cyperaceae. People call it squarrose sedge or narrow-leaved cattail sedge. Its native range spans southeastern Canada. It also spans the north-central and eastern United States. It grows in temperate regions, which have a mild climate. The Midwest forms part of its native range. In eastern Missouri, it grows in wet woods and swampy meadows. It also grows on flood plains and wet prairies. These sites show its need for soil that stays moist.

This sedge grows upright and has narrow, grass-like leaves. In gardens, it grows about 2 feet [0.61 metres] tall. Its spread at full size also reaches about 2 feet [0.61 metres]. The slim leaves give the plant a grassy look. Its upright shape suits use as ground cover in wet sites. The leaves may look less fresh in summer. Some leaves may die back at that time of year. This can reduce its worth as a leafy ground cover.

The small green flowers do not make a bold show. Missouri Botanical Garden lists blooms from April to September. Chicago Botanic Garden gives a shorter span: May to June. The seedheads put on a stronger show than the flowers. They look like thimbles and last through the summer. This gives the plant appeal beyond its small blooms. The species name refers to parts whose tips spread or bend back.

Grow this sedge in full sun or part shade. It needs moist to wet soil and can cope with floods. Wet meadows and lake edges make good sites for it. It also suits rain gardens and spots beside water gardens. It can grow in shade, so wooded sites suit it too. Such sites may need more water to keep soil moist. Both garden sources list USDA hardiness zones 4–6. Missouri Botanical Garden says it needs little care.

Use it to help restore stream banks or plant wet ground. It resists soil loss, which helps it serve this role beside water. Both garden sources say it resists deer, too. The seedheads give the main show in summer. Weigh that show against the chance of leaves declining in summer. The supplied sources do not show edible uses or establish toxicity. They give no pest or disease details for this species.