Carex plantaginea, commonly known as Plantainleaf Sedge, is a perennial herb native to rich, moist deciduous forests and the shaded understories of eastern North America, ranging from New Brunswick to Georgia and west to Minnesota and Iowa. This sedge typically grows up to 3 feet tall and forms dense clumps of broad, deep green leaves that resemble plantain, hence the common name. Plantainleaf Sedge is a cool-season plant that flowers in early to mid-spring, producing inconspicuous greenish-brown flower spikes that are not particularly showy but add texture to the foliage.

Plantainleaf Sedge is valued for its lush foliage and ability to thrive in shady conditions, making it an excellent ground cover for woodland gardens and shaded borders. It is also used for erosion control on slopes and in riparian plantings. This sedge prefers consistently moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full shade to partial sun. It is generally low maintenance, but it may require additional watering during dry periods. While it is not prone to serious pests or diseases, it can occasionally suffer from rust or leaf spot. Plantainleaf Sedge is not known for being invasive and is a beneficial addition to native plant gardens, supporting local ecosystems.CC BY-SA 4.0