Carex bromoides (brome sedge)

Brome sedge is a semi-evergreen clumping plant with fine-textured flowing foliage––a great low, green groundcover to consider for moist, partly shady areas. In April, clouds of small golden flowers appear with the emerging foliage. The finished flowers eventually arch over and disappear into the growing foliage. Mature height is 1' or less, and spread is up to approximately 2'. It works well in a rain garden or moist woodland areas. Can tolerate periods of shallow, standing water. Can also be used in large masses to form a non-aggressive weed-suppressing base layer in a mixed perennial bed. Adapts well to average soils and full sun. In full sun, the centers may begin to thin after several years, which can be remedied by lifting and dividing the plant in spring or fall.

Brome sedge is found mostly in the Northeast, northern mid-Atlantic, and the Great Lakes region of the United States. It grows in moist habitats, including soggy woodlands, wetland margins, and vernal ponds. Brome sedge supports many animals, including birds, butterflies, and mammals. Ducks, ruffed grouse, woodcock, and grain-eating songbirds feed on the seedheads, as do small mammals. Host plant for butterflies including the eyed brown and several skipper species.  

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)  

Photo credit: Maarten Vanhove