Carex arcta, commonly known as Northern Cluster Sedge, is a deciduous or semi-deciduous perennial herb native to moist, shaded forest floors and stream banks in the cooler regions of Western North America, including the Pacific Northwest and the Rocky Mountains. It forms dense clumps of erect stems that can reach up to 80 centimeters (31 inches) in height. The leaves of Northern Cluster Sedge are pale green to grayish, flat, and feature reddish or purple-dotted sheaths at their base, often growing longer than the stems. Its inflorescence is a dense, oblong cluster of up to 15 spikes of pointed flowers, each cluster measuring 3–4 cm (1.2–1.6 in) long, with individual spikes up to 1 cm (0.39 in) long.

This sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in shaded conditions and its textural contribution to garden compositions. It is often used in naturalized plantings, rain gardens, and as a ground cover in woodland gardens. Northern Cluster Sedge requires consistent moisture and prefers soils with medium drainage. It is adaptable to a range of light conditions from full sun to full shade, making it versatile for various garden settings. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0