Old Field Sedge, or Reflexed Sedge, is a clump-forming, evergreen, grasslike plant usually found in dry, deciduous forests throughout Eastern North America. In NC it occurs in some of the piedmont counties, including our own Chatham County. It grows best in bright shade or partial sun environments and can thrive in both moist and dry conditions. Over a broad area, the clumping is not so evident and the effect is delicate and lawn-like. It does produces seed heads which add visual interest to the otherwise smoothe surface. Eight to ten inches in height, and tolerant of light foot traffic, this sedge lends itself well to the low-maintenance “No-mow” alternative lawn movement. It spreads and thickens by seed, not by rhizomes. Old Field Sedge has proven itself to be a useful textural element and ground cover under broad-leaved shrubs and trees.
