Carex umbricola, commonly known as Umbrella Sedge or Shadow Sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to riparian zones, wet meadows, and moist woodlands of Australia and New Zealand. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height and width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). The plant features clumps of grass-like leaves and inconspicuous greenish-brown flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do add a subtle texture to the garden during their season.

Umbrella Sedge is valued for its ability to thrive in shady conditions and its utility in erosion control due to its dense root system. It is often used in rain gardens, as a ground cover in shaded areas, and for naturalizing in wetlands or near bodies of water. Carex umbricola prefers consistently moist soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and loam, with medium to high water requirements. While it is adaptable to part shade or full shade, it is not drought-tolerant and may require additional watering during dry periods. This sedge is generally low maintenance but can be susceptible to rust and other fungal diseases in overly wet conditions. It is not known to be invasive and does not have aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for planting near structures.CC BY-SA 4.0