SafePlants

Carolina Sedge (Carex caroliniana)

Carolina sedge, also known as Golden sedge, is a perennial member of the sedge family (Cyperaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• This is a grass-like plant. The leaves are strap-like and can reach up to 4 mm wide.
• The leaves of this plant can be hairy or hairless, depending on the maturity of the plant.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex caroliniana Schwein.
• Common Names: Carolina sedge, Golden sedge
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)
• Synonyms: None listed for Carex caroliniana.

Distribution and Habitat

• Carolina sedge is known from North Carolina.
• Specifically, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service protected critical habitat in Onslow and Pender counties, N.C., for Carolina sedge.
• The Biltmore sedge's range includes the Blue Ridge province of southwestern North Carolina, northwestern South Carolina, and northeastern Georgia.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a tufted, grass-like perennial.
• Fertile culms (stems) can reach one meter in height.
• The leaves are strap-like, 1.5-4.0 mm wide, and may be hairy or hairless.
• Stems are typically 25-80 cm in length.

Ecology

• North Carolina's golden sedge is adapted to inhabit a rare ecosystem on the Atlantic coast.

Related Species

• Other sedges mentioned include: Long's Sedge (Carex longii), Fringed Sedge (Carex crinita), Thin-fruited Sedge (Carex flaccosperma), Bush's sedge (Carex bushii Mackenzie), and Deeprooted Sedge (Cyperus entrerianus Boeckeler).
• Plantain-leaved Sedge/Seersucker Sedge (Carex plantaginea) is also mentioned.

Further Information

• Discover Life provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex caroliniana.
• North Carolina State University's Center for Turfgrass Environmental Research & Education and Turfgrass Management Group are potential resources for further information.