Raven’s Foot Sedge

(Carex crus-corvi)

Raven’s Foot Sedge (Carex crus-corvi)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Carex crus-corvi, commonly known as Raven’s Foot Sedge or Crowfoot Sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to wet meadows, marshes, and floodplains in southern Ontario, Canada, and the central and southeastern United States. It can grow up to 35 inches tall and is characterized by its grass-like appearance with triangular stems and long, narrow leaves. The plant produces brownish-green flowers in late spring to early summer, which are not particularly showy but are interesting upon close inspection. The seed heads that follow are more noticeable and can add texture to a garden setting.

Raven’s Foot Sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions, making it suitable for rain gardens, water features, and naturalized wetland plantings. It is also used for erosion control along waterways. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and requires consistently moist to wet soil. It is not drought-tolerant and may require additional watering during dry periods. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to leaf spot diseases in overly humid conditions. This sedge is not known for being invasive and is a beneficial addition to native plant gardens, supporting local ecosystems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wet meadows, marshes, and floodplains in southern Ontario, Canada, and the central and southeastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Crow-Spur Sedge, Crowfoot Fox Sedge, Raven’s-Foot Sedge

Scientific Names: , Carex crus-corvi, Carex bayardii, Carex crus-corvi f. orthoclados, Carex crus-corvi var. virginiana, Carex halei, Carex hystrix, Carex hystrix, Carex ornithorhyncha, Carex siciformis

GBIF Accepted Name: