Carex stipata, also known as Owlfruit Sedge, is a clump forming wetland species valued for its ability to stabilize streambanks and filter runoff in rain gardens and bioswales. Its spiky seedheads and bright green arching blades contribute both structure and movement to naturalized plantings and wetland edges.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist to wet soils; tolerates periodic flooding
Watering Needs: High; requires consistent moisture or wet conditions
Deer Resistance: Seldom browsed due to fibrous foliage texture
Native Status
Carex stipata is native to North America, commonly found in marshes, swamps, wet meadows, and ditches throughout much of the United States and southern Canada.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Seeds are eaten by waterfowl such as mallards and wood ducks; dense foliage offers nesting cover for marsh birds like red winged blackbirds.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports wetland beetles, spiders, and predatory insects that help balance aquatic ecosystems and suppress pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 18 - 24 in apart to allow dense massing while preserving root zone moisture retention and erosion control.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, bioswales, and wetland restoration areas where water filtration and wildlife support are priorities.
Companion Plants
- Lobelia siphilitica (Great Blue Lobelia) - Striking blue spikes add vertical contrast and attract pollinators in wet conditions.
- Veronicastrum virginicum (Culver's Root) - Tall spires of white flowers provide seasonal balance and vertical elegance.
- Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold) - Early yellow blooms brighten spring wetlands and harmonize with Carex texture.
- Chelone glabra (White Turtlehead) - Crisp white blooms and upright form complement Carex in moist borders.
- Iris versicolor (Blue Flag Iris) - Bold blooms and swordlike foliage add structure and thrive in similar wet soils.