Carex lyngbyei, commonly known as Lyngbye’s Sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to coastal wetlands, including estuaries, salt marshes, and tidal flats along the west coast of North America, from Alaska to California, and is also found in similar habitats in Greenland and Iceland. It typically grows from 10 inches to over 3 feet tall, with long rhizomes that contribute to its ability to stabilize soil and reduce erosion. The plant features reddish-brown sheaths at the base of its leaves and stiff, nodding spikes of flowers on peduncles, which are more noticeable when they bear fruit.

Lyngbye’s Sedge is valued for its ecological role in wetland habitats, where it acts as a pioneer species, colonizing mudflats and contributing to the formation of soil. It is often used in restoration projects for its ability to thrive in silty, brackish water conditions. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist or wet soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. While not commonly used in ornamental gardening, it can be a useful plant for naturalized areas or water garden edges. Care should be taken, as it can spread vigorously in suitable conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0