Tussock Sedge Grass

Light Needs

Full Shade to Partial Sun

(0 - 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2-3 Feet

Mature Spread

2-3 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

Finding plants to fill wet places in a landscape is often a challenge. The tussock sedge (Carex stricta) is a great candidate in this situation. It prefers wet soil and tolerates wet to dry cycles. The foliage is evergreen, bright green when it emerges, and fine-bladed. Old leaves turn brown and remain on the plant under newer green growth. Spiky brown seed clusters appear in summer and also provide aesthetic interest.

This plant is of no interest to deer but can provide valued habitat for birds, amphibians and insects. As a North American native, it is an excellent choice for nature-friendly landscapes. The ability to form clumps and tolerate a range of light conditions make it a solid choice  for a groundcover in moist areas. It works well in swales, around the edges of water features, or in rain gardens. 

Tussock Sedge Care

The tussock sedge grows well in full sun to part shade. Place the plant in moist to wet soil. The ideal soil is acidic and mucky, although It can tolerate standing water or intermittent flooding, as well as short periods of drought. Avoid over-fertilizing the sedge. Do not fertilize it or simply give it a single slow-release application once per year in spring at a low rate. It can be grown in containers as long as the container is kept suitably moist. 

If you do not prune the tussock sedge, it will form its characteristic tussocks in the landscape, with green leaves growing up and over the clump of older brown foliage. If desired, you can take out the old dead foliage to keep the plant looking tider. It also tolerates an annual fall or early spring cut-back.

Tussock Sedge Spacing

The tussock sedge grows two to three feet tall with a similar spread. Space plants about two feet apart. Under optimal conditions, expect this plant to spread and form colonies.