Carex comosa (Longhair Sedge)

A bold, vigorous wetland sedge that tolerates deeper standing water than most common sedge species, longhair sedge is a strong specification choice for retention basins and the wettest zones of a rain garden where few other sedges perform.

Species Overview

Carex comosa, or Longhair Sedge, is a robust perennial sedge native to wetlands and moist meadows throughout North America. It features long, arching leaves and distinctive cylindrical seed heads covered in bristly spikes. This sedge can grow up to 3 feet tall and spreads by rhizomes, forming dense colonies. Longhair Sedge thrives in full sun to partial shade and wet soils, making it ideal for wetland restoration, rain gardens, and erosion control projects.

Application

• Wetland restoration in wet, mucky soils and shallow standing water
• Rain garden and retention basin plantings - tolerates deeper water than most sedges
• Riparian zone plantings, including lake shores and river banks
• Wildlife cover and water-filtration component in ecologically focused landscapes

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Wet, mucky soils; tolerates shallow standing water
• Growth Rate: Rapid - vigorous, fountain-like clump former
• Plant Type: Graminoid
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft. (existing records show up to 3 ft.; some sources note flowering culms to 5 ft.; see flags)
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Green; April-June
• Wetland Indicator Status: OBL (Obligate Wetland) - Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain region
• Native Range: Widespread across North America; greatest distribution in the northeastern U.S. and Great Lakes states
• Hydrology: Wet
• Salinity Tolerance: None
• Root Depth: Shallow (Under 12 in.)
• Drought Tolerance: Low
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Flood Tolerance: High - A wetland sedge found in marshes, ponds, and other consistently wet sites; tolerates standing water.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Clumping/Mounding - vigorous, fountain-like clump former
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
• Pollinator Value: None significant - wind-pollinated