Nebraska Sedge

(Carex nebraskensis)

Nebraska Sedge (Carex nebraskensis)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 12" - 22"
High Temp. 72°F - 89°F
Low Temp. 8°F - 19°F

Summary

Carex nebraskensis, commonly known as Nebraska Sedge, is a semi-deciduous perennial grass native to wet meadows, stream banks, and riparian zones across the Central and Western USA and Canada. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) with a similar spread, forming dense clumps of narrow, grass-like leaves. The plant produces inconspicuous greenish-brown flowers in late spring to early summer, which are followed by seed heads that can persist into fall. The foliage may remain evergreen in milder climates.

Nebraska Sedge is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion along waterways. It is often used in rain gardens, bioswales, and as a naturalizing element in wetland restoration projects. Its preference for moist to wet conditions makes it suitable for planting in areas with poor drainage. While it thrives in full sun to part shade, it requires consistently moist to wet soil to perform well. It is relatively low maintenance, but can spread vigorously in ideal conditions; manage clumps to keep within bounds.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-2.5 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to wet meadows, stream banks, and riparian zones across the Central and Western USA and Canada

Other Names

Common Names: James’ Sedge

Scientific Names: Carex nebraskensis, Carex nebrascensis var. ultriformis, Carex nebraskensis var. eruciformis, Carex jamesii var. nebraskensis, Carex jamesii var. ultriformis, Carex nebraskensis var. praevia, Carex nebraskensis var. ultriformis

GBIF Accepted Name: Carex nebraskensis Dewey