Carex aperta, commonly known as Columbian Sedge, is a perennial grass that can be deciduous or semi-deciduous depending on the climate. It is native to wet meadows, marshes, and the understory of moist forests in North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. This sedge typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters), forming dense clumps of narrow, grass-like leaves.

Columbian Sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used for soil stabilization near water bodies, as well as for creating naturalistic plantings in water gardens and rain gardens. It is also a vital component of the habitat, providing cover and food for wildlife. In cultivation, it requires consistent moisture and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. While it prefers soils with slow or medium drainage, it is adaptable and can grow in standing water. Columbian Sedge is relatively low maintenance but may require division every few years to maintain vigor.CC BY-SA 4.0