Ivory Sedge - Carex eburnea

Carex eburnea, or Ivory Sedge, is a plant native to Michigan and the UP which is short and resembles a fine-leaved grass. Topping out around 6 inches, this plant makes a good addition to a native lawn. It prefers dry soil and part to full shade. Like many native plants, it will tough it out if the soil is on the medium side or the light brighter than its ideal, though rich soil can make the flower stalks floppy. It spreads by rhizome, but slowly, so mix with other faster plants like Wild Strawberry if trying to replace turf grass. 
 
This sedge is notable for its extremely fine-textured foliage. It forms lovely fuzzy clumps and adds great short structure to a garden. Good for front borders, lawns, rock gardens, and smaller gardens. Deer resistant, but a good host plant for various insects, including Skipper butterflies. The insects in turn are essential food for birds with nestlings. The fine foliage is sometimes used for nest material. In the fall, birds will eat the seeds.