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California sedge
Scientific Name: Carex californica
Family: Cyperaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Carex: A Versatile Genus of Sedges
The genus Carex encompasses a wide variety of sedges, grass-like plants often found in moist environments. Several Carex species, particularly those native to California, are gaining popularity as lawn substitutes and ground covers.
Considerations for Pets
- Carex species, particularly those used as lawn substitutes, may be commonly found in residential gardens.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)
- Several Carex species are mentioned, including:
- Carex pansa (California Meadow Sedge, Dune Sedge, Sand-dune Sedge, Western Meadow Sedge)
- Carex praegracilis (California Field Sedge, Clustered Field Sedge)
- Carex californica (California Sedge)
- Carex nebraskensis (Nebraska Sedge)
- Carex nudata (California Black Flowering Sedge)
- Carex klamathensis
- Carex barbarae (Basket Sedge, White Root Sedge, Barbar's Sedge)
- Carex flacca (Blue Sedge)
Distribution and Habitat
- Many Carex species mentioned are native to California and the western United States.
- They are typically found in wet meadows, streambanks, and other moist habitats.
- Carex praegracilis is found across the United States, from California to Maine, excluding the southeastern region.
- Carex klamathensis is described as growing in serpentine fens of southwest Oregon and three California sites.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Carex pansa is a creeping sedge that grows 4-6 inches high.
- Carex praegracilis grows to 6-8 inches tall.
- Some Carex species spread via rhizomes, forming dense mats, and can be used as lawn substitutes or unmowed meadows.
- Carex pansa is described as making more of a "wild meadow" when unmowed.
Ecological Role
- Carex nebraskensis (Nebraska Sedge) is noted as an important forage species.
Quirky Facts
- Carex pansa is said to be a good substitute for lawn turf, and in clumps, it can remind one of mondo grass.
- John Greenlee selected Carex praegracilis as an alternative to turf grass.
Resources and Further Information
- University of California Statewide IPM Program
- UC Master Gardener Program
- Theodore Payne Foundation California Native Plant Database
- California Flora Native Plant Nursery
- Chico State Herbarium, California State University, Chico