Illinois Native Plant Guide

Bristly Sedge
Carex comosa

Preferred Water Depth and Inundation Tolerance

Prefers 0 - 12 inches. Species tolerates early seasonal flooding.

Wildlife Value

Fruits are eaten by waterfowl. Also provides food for sora and yellow rails, swamp and tree sparrows, snipe and other song birds.

Application/Zone

Used in upper shoreline zones. Marsh species that forms clumps.

Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance

• Plugs seem to work best. Plant on 0.5-1.5 foot centers because of slow rate of spread.
• There are some known cases of seed germination in restored wet areas.
• Cold, moist stratification may be needed for seeds.

Bristly Sedge
Carex comosa

Mature Height
1.5-4.0 feet

Plant Type
Perennial sedge

Indicator Status
Obligate

pH
Not available

Nutrient Load Tolerance
Low

Salt Tolerance
Low

Siltation Tolerance
Not tolerant

Flowering Color and Time
Green
May to July

Light Preference
Partial to full sun

Seeding Rate
.125 lbs/acre

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