SafePlants

Sand Sedge (Carex arenaria)

Sand Sedge, scientifically known as Carex arenaria, is a perennial sedge commonly found in sandy coastal habitats.

Considerations for Pets

• Sand Sedge is noted for its spreading growth habit via underground stems (rhizomes), which could potentially lead to it spreading in a garden environment if planted.

Considerations for Children

• This plant is typically found in dune ecosystems and coastal areas, environments that might also be frequented by children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex arenaria
• Common Name: Sand Sedge
• Family: Cyperaceae (mentioned indirectly via "Cyperaceaes" in APHOTOFLORA reference)

Distribution and Habitat

• Sand Sedge thrives in dunes and other sandy habitats, especially coastal sites.
• It is found in the UK and Ireland.
• It has also been naturalized along the Atlantic coast of the U.S.

Ecological Role

• Sand Sedge is a pioneer plant, playing a crucial role in stabilizing sand dunes.
• It's adapted to acid grey dunes.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a perennial, growing to a height of approximately 0.5 meters (1ft 8in) and spreading up to 2 meters (6ft).
• It spreads rapidly via underground stems (rhizomes).
• It flowers from June to July.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It plays a role in coastal sand dune ecosystems, coexisting with species such as Marram Grass, Red Fescue, and Sea Holly.
• Rhizosphere bacteria are associated with the plant's roots.

Quirky Facts

• The rootstock of the Sand Sedge is said to have properties similar to sarsaparilla.

Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides help and information on Carex arenaria.
• APHOTOMARINE and APHOTOFLORA offer photographic stock libraries for this plant.
• Information on the plant's interaction with nitrogen in Baltic areas can be found in Remke et al.