Carex aquatilis × cespitosa, commonly known as Tussock Sedge, Meadow Sedge, or Clustered Field Sedge, is a hybrid perennial grass that thrives in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of streams and ponds. It is native to North America and parts of Eurasia, where it plays a crucial role in water filtration and provides habitat for wildlife. This sedge typically grows at a moderate rate 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 that can be effective in erosion control. The flowers are green or brown and inconspicuous, blooming in the spring and summer, but they are important for maintaining biodiversity as they attract pollinators.

Tussock Sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in rain gardens, bioswales, and as a natural method for water purification in landscape design. It is also suitable for planting in areas where many other plants would struggle due to poor drainage. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade and prefers slow-draining clay or loam soils with high moisture levels. While generally low-maintenance, it can spread if conditions are ideal, and may require management to keep it in bounds.CC BY-SA 4.0