Mertens Sedge grows in forest openings, roadsides, wet subalpine meadows and along stream banks from Northern California up to Alaska and as far east as Montana and Idaho. It spreads by rhizomes much like most sedges do, but unlike other sedges, it doesn't travel very far. It is usually contained to a single location. The beautiful sedgegrass leaves will go dormant in winter and shoot out lush green growth in spring that can reach 3' long. Mertens Sedge has been reported to likely be a host plant for two butterflies: the Common Ringlet and the Dun Skipper.