Broom-Sedge (Andropogon virginicus)
Various insects feed on Broom Sedge. It is the host plant to 13 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org), including the host plant for the threatened Cobweb Skipper (mnfi.anr.msu.edu), Dusted Skipper (mnfi.anr.msu.edu), and Newman's brocade (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/). The shelter it provides for wildlife is another great aspect of this plant. The dried-out foliage persists throughout the winter and into summer providing shelter for various insects during winter and cover and nesting habitat for a number of birds. Overwintering birds also eat the seeds during the winter (illinoiswildflower.info).
Various insects feed on Broom Sedge. It is the host plant to 13 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org), including the host plant for the threatened Cobweb Skipper (mnfi.anr.msu.edu), Dusted Skipper (mnfi.anr.msu.edu), and Newman's brocade (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/). The shelter it provides for wildlife is another great aspect of this plant. The dried-out foliage persists throughout the winter and into summer providing shelter for various insects during winter and cover and nesting habitat for a number of birds. Overwintering birds also eat the seeds during the winter (illinoiswildflower.info).
Various insects feed on Broom Sedge. It is the host plant to 13 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org), including the host plant for the threatened Cobweb Skipper (mnfi.anr.msu.edu), Dusted Skipper (mnfi.anr.msu.edu), and Newman's brocade (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/). The shelter it provides for wildlife is another great aspect of this plant. The dried-out foliage persists throughout the winter and into summer providing shelter for various insects during winter and cover and nesting habitat for a number of birds. Overwintering birds also eat the seeds during the winter (illinoiswildflower.info).
Life Cycle: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Full, Partial (seems to prefer Full)
Soil Moisture: Medium, Medium-dry, Dry
Height: 1.5-4 feet
Plant Spacing: 1.5-2 feet
Bloom Time: August-September
Bloom Color:
Advantages: Bird Favorite, Deer Resistant
Host: 13 species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (nwf.org)
Beneficial for Endangered or Threatened Species: It is a host plant for the vulnerable Dusted skipper (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/), Cobweb Skipper (Hesperia metea) (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/), Newman's brocade (Meropleon ambifusca) (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/)
