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silvery sedge

Scientific Name: Carex canescens

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Silvery Sedge (Carex canescens)

Silvery Sedge, scientifically known as Carex canescens, is a sedge species with several common names, including Grey Bog Sedge and Hoary Sedge.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Carex canescens L.
  • Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Synonyms: Carex curta, Carex canescens ssp. canescens, Carex argyrantha
  • Subspecies: Carex canescens ssp. disjuncta (Fernald) Toivonen
  • Section: glareosae

Distribution and Habitat

  • Found in various locations, including Caroline County, Maryland, High Lake, Strawberry Mt. Wilderness and Iceland.
  • Often found in wetland environments like marshes and fens.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Clump-forming grass-like herb.
  • Forms densely tufted perennials from a short, black base.
  • Inflorescence consists of 4 to 8 spikes.
  • Perigynia are oval-elliptic in shape.

Ecological Role

  • Can be a dominant species in certain saturated peat environments.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Mentioned in the context of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) such as the montane sedge-skipper (Oreisplanus perornata) and silver sedge-skipper.

Quirky Facts

  • The plant's name is referenced in lyrics, artists, and songs, indicating its cultural presence.
  • Some varieties, like Carex 'Silver Sceptre', are prized for their ornamental value, with leaves edged in white or silvery margins.

Further Information

  • USDA PLANTS Database: Symbol CACA11
  • Encyclopedia of Life: Contains articles about Carex canescens subsp. canescens.
  • Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex canescens.
  • The Herbarium of The Morton Arboretum