Carex cognata, commonly known as the Afromontane Sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the Afromontane biogeographic zone, which includes high-altitude regions in Africa. This sedge is not exclusively found in wetlands but also inhabits grasslands and montane forests, where it contributes to the biodiversity and stability of these ecosystems. Carex cognata typically forms dense clumps and has a moderate growth rate. It features narrow, grass-like leaves and inconspicuous greenish-brown flowers that appear in the spring and summer months. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do produce small, scale-like fruits.

The Afromontane Sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in moist conditions and is often used in restoration projects to stabilize soil and prevent erosion. It is suitable for rain gardens, wet meadows, and as a ground cover in shaded areas. Carex cognata prefers consistently moist soil, tolerates a range of soil types from clay to loam, and can grow in both full sun and part shade. While it is not commonly found in the horticultural trade, it can be an excellent choice for ecological gardens and naturalized plantings. Potential problems include susceptibility to root rot if grown in poorly drained soils. It is not known to be invasive outside its native range, and there are no popular garden cultivars of this species.CC BY-SA 4.0