Big-Head Sedge

(Carex macrocephala)

Big-Head Sedge (Carex macrocephala)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Carex macrocephala, commonly known as big-head sedge or largehead sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Cyperaceae family. It is native to coastal sand dunes and beach margins in the northern Pacific region, including Japan, Primorsky Krai, Sakhalin, the Kurils, Kamchatka, and extending to Alaska, British Columbia, Washington state, and Oregon. This sedge typically forms dense clumps reaching 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) in height and width. The plant is characterized by its distinctive large, spherical seed heads that are golden brown in color and appear in late spring to early summer. The foliage is grass-like, with a rough texture and a dark green hue.

Big-head sedge is valued for its unique seed heads, which add textural interest to garden landscapes. It is often used in coastal restoration projects due to its ability to stabilize sand dunes and its tolerance of salt spray. In garden settings, it can serve as an accent plant in water features or naturalized areas. Carex macrocephala prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and requires consistent moisture, making it suitable for wetland or riparian plantings. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to rust and other fungal diseases in humid conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 0.7-1.2 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to coastal sand dunes and beach margins in the northern Pacific region

Other Names

Common Names: Large-Head Sedge, Big-Headed Sedge, Large-Headed Sedge, Carex À Grosses Têtes

Scientific Names: , Carex macrocephala, Carex anthericoides, Carex macrocephala subsp. anthericoides, Carex macrocephala var. macrocephala, Carex macrocephala f. bracteata, Carex macrocephala var. bracteata, Carex menziesiana, Vignea macrocephala,

GBIF Accepted Name: Carex macrocephala Willd. ex Spreng.