Seepy areas in forests (deciduous, hemlock, or cedar), edges of vernal pools in forests, marshy forest borders, streamsides in forests.

Though very similar in overall appearance to the common Carex stipata, this is a much more local plant, and more restricted in its habitats, typically occurring in seeps and along springy streams in forests. Under high magnificaton, the upper surface of the leaves is finely papillose, which also distinguishes it from C. stipata, which has smooth leaves.