Broom Sedge: Not a Sedge, But a Useful Native Grass

Despite its common name, broom sedge (Andropogon virginicus) is a warm-season bunchgrass, not a true sedge. It's a familiar sight in old fields, roadsides, and pastures across the Southeast—often dismissed as a weed, but with a surprising history of practical use.

Historical Uses

• Thatching: Stems were layered on log-cabin roofs.
• Brooms: Bundled stems swept dirt floors; the debris sifted through floorboards.
• "Bresh brooms": Dogwood twigs served a similar purpose for yard sweeping.

Ecological Role

Broom sedge is a pioneer species, colonizing disturbed, low-fertility soils. Its presence often indicates acidic, nutrient-poor conditions. While pasture managers consider it undesirable (cattle avoid it once mature), it provides cover for ground-nesting birds and seeds for wildlife.

If You're Planting It Intentionally

• Source seed or plugs from native-plant nurseries.
• Plant in full sun, well-drained soil.
• Expect clumps 2–4 feet tall with attractive copper-orange fall color.
• It self-seeds readily; deadhead if spread is unwanted.

At $4 per plant online, your rural neighbors might joke about missed revenue—but broom sedge's real value is ecological, not ornamental.