Data provided by the participants of the Consortium of California Herbaria

View additional distribution information on the Jepson eflora

Sand Dune Sedge (Carex pansa) is a member of the Sedge family (Cyperaceae). It is a grass-like perennial with triangular blades and clusters of dark brown nutlets as flowers.

Butterflies and moths use Dune Sedge flowers for nectar. Small shore birds may use sedges and rushes for hiding and nesting.

Dune Sedge naturally grows in the Sand Dune plant community along the west coast.

Although this Sedge is sometimes recommended as a lawn substitute, it grows best in sandy soil, with regular water and no more than light foot traffic. Use Dune Sedge for coastal gardens with sandy soil and to create habitat for coastal wildlife.

Plant type

Grass

Size

8 - 16 in Tall

Dormancy

Evergreen

Fragrance

None

Calscape icon
Color

Cream, Brown

Special uses

Containers, Deer resistant, Groundcover

Sun

Full Sun

Water

Moderate

Summer irrigation

Max 1x / month once established

Ease of care

Moderate

Cold tolerance

Tolerates cold to 15° F

Soil drainage

Fast, Medium

Soil description

Prefers beach sand.
Soil PH: 4.0 - 8.0

Sunset Zones

4*, 5*, 17*, 24*

Site type

Coastal strand, dunes and other sandy areas from Ventura County northward

Plant communities

Coastal Strand

Caterpillars
Butterflies

Butterflies and moths supported

0 confirmed and 6 likely

Confirmed Likely

Common Ringlet

Coenonympha tullia

Olive Green Cutworm Moth

Dargida procinctus

Elachista cucullata

Dun Skipper

Euphyes vestris