grass

Bird's-foot Sedge

Carex ornithopoda

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Western Asia, Northwest Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Carex ornithopoda, the Bird's-foot Sedge, is a low-growing, clump-forming, evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial. It features fine-textured, grass-like, green leaves and distinctive, small flower spikes in spring that resemble a bird's foot. Its common name, Bird's-foot Sedge, refers to the unique arrangement of its female flower spikes, which resemble a bird's foot. It is an excellent, fine-textured groundcover for shade gardens, rock gardens, and woodland settings.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides fine-textured greenery that softens shady areas and adds movement.

Thrives in moist soils, helping to control erosion and improve soil stability.

Supports local insect populations and contributes to shade and moisture retention.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shady, moist location with well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil consistently moist for 6 weeks.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water regularly during dry spells for optimal growth.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Divide every 2-3 years for healthy growth
Plant in partial shade for optimum health

Don't

Avoid drought conditions ❌
Do not plant in overly dry or sunny spots
Refrain from over-fertilizing which can cause legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady border with fine-textured grassMoist woodland garden edgeSilver-foliaged groundcover

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes Ligularia Japanese forest grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bird's-foot Sedge questions

What zones can Bird's-foot Sedge grow in?

Bird's-foot Sedge is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bird's-foot Sedge deer resistant?

Yes — Bird's-foot Sedge is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Bird's-foot Sedge bloom?

Bird's-foot Sedge typically blooms in spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Bird's-foot Sedge need full sun?

Bird's-foot Sedge does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.