Carex misera, commonly known as Wretched Sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to high elevations in the southern Appalachian Mountains. It is typically found in specialized habitats such as seeps, wet cliffs, and rocky outcrops, often in areas with high moisture and cool microclimates. Wretched Sedge is a sedge, meaning it is a grass-like plant with triangular stems and inconspicuous flowers. It grows in clumps and reaches a modest height, usually not exceeding a few inches. The plant’s flowers are small and not showy, with a greenish-brown color, and it produces fruits in the form of tiny, dry capsules known as achenes.

Wretched Sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in challenging, moist environments where few other plants can survive, making it an important component of the ecosystems in which it resides. It is not commonly used in cultivation due to its specific habitat requirements and lack of ornamental appeal. However, it can be used in native plant gardens or restoration projects within its native range. Wretched Sedge prefers consistently moist to wet soils and partial to full shade conditions. It is not known for having significant problems with diseases or pests, but its specialized habitat needs can make it difficult to grow outside of its natural environment.CC BY-SA 4.0