White Star Sedge (Dichromena latifolia): A Wetland Sedge with Star-Like White Bracts

White Star Sedge, also called Star Rush or White-Topped Sedge, is a perennial sedge (Dichromena latifolia, syn. Rhynchospora latifolia) native to wetlands of the southeastern U.S. Its showy "flowers" are actually clusters of spikelets surrounded by long, white, petal-like bracts that create a starry appearance.

Wetland Beauty

This sedge forms clumps of triangular stems 2–3 feet tall with grass-like leaves. In summer, the terminal inflorescences are crowned with 5–7 showy white bracts, each up to 2 inches long, surrounding the small, inconspicuous spikelets. The effect is a constellation of white stars above the foliage.

Garden Use

It thrives in consistently moist to wet, acidic soils in full sun to part shade. Ideal for rain gardens, pond margins, bog gardens, and wet meadows. It provides nectar for pollinators and seeds for birds. A beautiful native for wetland restoration and ornamental wet gardens.