This sedge produces stems up to 60 centimeters tall, growing from a long rhizome.

The stem just below the inflorescence is sheathed in the base of the bract, the characteristic that gives the plant its name.

The plant reproduces by seed and by sprouting from the rhizome and the stolons, and from buds at the bases of the stems.

[1] It may be found growing in snow, which might help to protect it from dry and cold conditions.

[6] On the international IUCN red list it has most recently been assessed to be least concern (LC).