- Category
- Grass / Sedge / Rush
- Sun
- Full to Shade
- Soil moisture
- Medium-Wet to Medium-Dry
- Bloom time
- May–Jun
- Notes
- Cool
About Short-headed Bracted Sedge
Short-headed Bracted Sedge (Carex cephalophora), also known as Oval-headed Sedge, is a versatile and compact native sedge that brings a tidy, tufted texture to any landscape. Reaching a height of 8 to 36 inches, this species is characterized by its small, dense, oval-shaped seed clusters that appear in late spring and early summer. It is a highly adaptable plant, thriving in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade and tolerating dry to average moisture levels. Naturally found in open woods, thickets, and wooded slopes across a large portion of North America, it serves as a valuable ecological component by providing seeds for small birds and supporting local insect populations. Its non-aggressive, clump-forming habit makes it an ideal choice for woodland borders, shaded groundcovers, or as a 'filler' in native garden beds where a low-maintenance, green accent is desired.
Native range
Native to 38 states:
County range map

Range map courtesy of BONAP (Biota of North America Program).
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