Cyperus-like Sedge vs Sweetgrass

Cyperus-like Sedge is a native perennial sedge found in wetlands, marshes, swamps, and along shorelines. Classified as an obligate wetland species, it grows in dense clumps that thrive in saturated soils, helping stabilize wet ground and protect shorelines. These colonies also provide cover for wildlife, while the seeds may be eaten by waterfowl and other birds. It is well-suited to wetland restoration, waterside and riparian zone plantings, and naturalization projects.
Its ornamental appeal comes from the contrast between the upright male floral spikes at the top of the stems and the long, drooping female floral spikes that hang below. These seed spikes resemble those of Cyperus species, giving the plant its common name and making it an attractive addition to naturalized plantings.

Sweetgrass is a cool-season perennial grass best known for its sweet, vanilla-like fragrance. The scent comes from coumarin in the leaves, which is pleasant to humans but has a bitter taste that makes the plant less appealing to deer and other herbivores. As a cool-season grass, Sweetgrass grows most vigorously in spring and fall, slowing or even going dormant during the heat of summer.

It spreads quickly through creeping rhizomes and can be difficult to remove once established, so it is best planted in areas where its spread will not cause problems. Due to its deep, vigorous root system and preference for moist soils, Sweetgrass is especially useful for erosion control, soil stabilization, riparian plantings, and naturalization projects.

Note: Sweetgrass was formerly classified under the scientific name Hierochloe odorata and its subspecies. The subspecies found in Canada are currently considered two distinct species: Anthoxanthum hirtum, which is native across Canada, and Anthoxanthum nitens, which is native to Eastern Canada. Because these two species are alike and share many overlapping common names, they are often considered as only one species.

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