Grasses and sedges of High Park

Grasses and sedges of High Park / Plants of Toronto's High Park

Grasses and sedges may receive less attention than majestic trees and colourful wildflowers – yet these sturdy plants are central players in the rich and complex ecosystems of prairies and savannahs.

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Grasses. Photo: Sharon Lovett

Prairie Grasses in High Park

When people think of the pre-European settlement landscape of Ontario, they often think of forests. However, historical records show that a significant portion of Southern Ontario was actually prairie and savannah habitats. This is a little known secret because so much of these landscapes was transformed into agriculture.

Grasses and sedges you may see in High Park

Big Bluestem. Photo: Karen Yukich

Big Bluestem (close-up). Photo: Sharon Lovett

Panic Grass. Photo: Karen Yukich

Indian Grass. Photo: Sharon Lovett

Indian Grass. Photo: Karen Yukich

Bottlebrush Grass. Photo: Sharon Lovett

Sedges in bloom. Photo: Karen Yukich

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High Park Volunteers featured in local magazine

Several groups of High Park volunteers are featured in the November 2026 issue of “Neighbours of High Park & Roncesvalles” magazine. Our Park Powered by Our People showcases the work of Paws for Parks, the High Park Natural Environment Committee,…

Hawk Migration this fall

The High Park Hawk Watch starts on September 1 and continues daily until November 30. Hawks generally fly when the winds are from the northwest. Keen birders monitor the weather report and come on good days. There is generally a…

Cicada-killer Wasps make their home in High Park

In recent years these large, boldly coloured wasps have taken up residence in High Park’s sandy soil. Despite their imposing size, they are not a threat to people. Males constantly patrol their underground nesting sites and may aggressively fly right…