Plains Oval Sedge (Carex brevior)

$8.00

This hardy, adaptable native is known for its distinct, wing-shaped seed heads that cluster into unique "oval" spikes in early summer. Its medium-green foliage forms attractive, fountain-like tufts. Remarkably resilient, it thrives in a range of conditions—from dry, sunny meadows to moist garden borders. Whether you are looking to fill a gap in a native pollinator garden or need a reliable plant for a challenging clay-heavy spot, this sedge delivers both function and subtle, natural charm.

Plant Profile

  • Sun Exposure Full Sun, Part Shade, Shade

  • Water Needs Low to Medium; very drought-tolerant once established

  • Soil Type Adaptable; thrives in clay, loam, or sandy soils

  • Mature Height 1–2 feet

  • Deer Resistance High

  • Bloom Time June, July

  • Plant Spacing 6–10 inches

Plant Characteristics

  • Extreme Versatility: One of the most adaptable sedges, handling everything from drought to temporary flooding.

  • Unique Textures: The flattened, oval seed heads provide a fascinating visual detail that stands out in a naturalized landscape.

  • Low Maintenance: Highly resistant to pests and diseases, requiring almost no intervention once it is settled in your garden.

Pro Tip: Plains Oval Sedge is an ideal choice for "inter-planting" in a meadow or prairie garden. Because it handles dry soil so well, use it as a living mulch between taller flowering perennials like Coneflowers or Black-eyed Susans to suppress weeds and keep moisture in the soil.

This hardy, adaptable native is known for its distinct, wing-shaped seed heads that cluster into unique "oval" spikes in early summer. Its medium-green foliage forms attractive, fountain-like tufts. Remarkably resilient, it thrives in a range of conditions—from dry, sunny meadows to moist garden borders. Whether you are looking to fill a gap in a native pollinator garden or need a reliable plant for a challenging clay-heavy spot, this sedge delivers both function and subtle, natural charm.

Plant Profile

  • Sun Exposure Full Sun, Part Shade, Shade

  • Water Needs Low to Medium; very drought-tolerant once established

  • Soil Type Adaptable; thrives in clay, loam, or sandy soils

  • Mature Height 1–2 feet

  • Deer Resistance High

  • Bloom Time June, July

  • Plant Spacing 6–10 inches

Plant Characteristics

  • Extreme Versatility: One of the most adaptable sedges, handling everything from drought to temporary flooding.

  • Unique Textures: The flattened, oval seed heads provide a fascinating visual detail that stands out in a naturalized landscape.

  • Low Maintenance: Highly resistant to pests and diseases, requiring almost no intervention once it is settled in your garden.

Pro Tip: Plains Oval Sedge is an ideal choice for "inter-planting" in a meadow or prairie garden. Because it handles dry soil so well, use it as a living mulch between taller flowering perennials like Coneflowers or Black-eyed Susans to suppress weeds and keep moisture in the soil.