Carex stricta
Tussock Sedge
General
This sedge forms hummocks, or tussocks, from its dead foliage at the end of its growing season, forming large clumps of plant material from which it continues to grow. Tussock sedge is one of the most common sedges in North America, growing mainly in open wet areas with seasonal flooding. Geese and other birds use the hummocks as a nesting site. This sedge is well-adapted to moist to wet soils, including marshes, swamps, stream banks, and pond edges. Its ability to thrive in both sun and partial shade makes it a versatile species within its ecological niche. Tussock sedge plays a crucial role in wetland ecosystems, where it contributes to soil stabilization, erosion control, and water filtration. Its dense root system helps to bind soil particles together, preventing sediment runoff into water bodies.
Plant Description
A 2-4' sedge that will usually have a clump of dead plant material at the bottom. Flowers are inflorescences with separate male and female spikes. The stems are sharp and triangular, with the lance-shaped sheathed narrow leaves growing close to the stem with an alternate growing pattern.
Height (ft)
2-4'
Soil moisture
Moist to wet
Soil types
Variable textures, shallow water
Wetland indicator
OBL
Shade tolerance
Tolerant, Full Sun to Full Shade
Bloom color
Green
Bloom period
Spring
Drought tolerance
Low
Salinity tolerance
None
Range
Common throughout the Northeastern United States, from Maine to Pennsylvania and Delaware, and south along the Appalachians to Alabama. West along the Great Lakes to North and South Dakota, and into Wyoming. Disjunct populations in Oklahoma and Texas.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]