Species PlantsHop Sedge

Hop Sedge

Carex lupulina

CommonPlant
Illustration of Hop Sedge (Carex lupulina)

Hop Sedge is a large, coarse wetland sedge named for its inflated, hop-like fruiting bodies. Native to eastern North America, it grows 2–4 feet tall in forested wetlands and along stream banks. The distinctive inflated perigynia give it an ornamental appearance. It is an important component of bottomland forest understories.

Habitat
Grows in forested swamps, floodplain forests, and along shaded stream margins.
Diet
Seeds eaten by wood ducks and other waterfowl; provides cover for amphibians.
How common
Common

Best time to see a Hop Sedge

The best time to see a Hop Sedge is June–August, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 4,461 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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