This unique sedge can be found in both moist woodlands and along ponds and streams. This clump forming sedge possesses mostly upright foliage and produces distinctive seedheads resembly spiked clubs. In woodland areas it is commonly found with Carex blanda, Elymus viginicus, and Rudbeckia laciniata, and when on a streambank it is commonly found with Carex muskingumensis, Rosa palustris, and Iris virginica shrevei.