SafePlants

Vernal Sedge

Vernal sedge refers to several species of sedge, primarily Carex caryophyllea and Carex praecox. Common names also include "The Beatles Spring/Vernal Sedge" and "mop-head sedge." The Latin word caryophyllea means "of the color or odor of cloves."

Considerations for Pets

• This plant may be used as a dense, fine-textured groundcover.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex caryophyllea, Carex praecox
• Common Names: Vernal sedge, "The Beatles Spring/Vernal Sedge", mop-head sedge, iron grass
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• The genus Carex comprises a large number of species, estimated between 1100 and 2000, which can be challenging to distinguish.

Distribution and Habitat

• Carex caryophyllea is native to Eurasia and was first recorded in North America in 1826. It is now naturalized in the eastern U.S., specifically found in Massachusetts and Maine.
• Often found in vernal pools, marshes, grassy ponds, pond shores, and floodplain forests.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Carex caryophyllea has a stoloniferous habit and early-blooming spikes.
• Some varieties act as a dense, fine-textured, evergreen groundcover, reaching up to 8 inches in height.
• The foliage is described as rich green.

Ecological Role

• Found in vernal pools, sedge meadows, marshes, and wet prairies.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Sedge Warblers use it for migration.
• The sedge sprite (Nehalennia irene) is a species of damselfly often found near vernal pools where sedges grow.

Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life