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crested sedge
Scientific Name: Carex cristatella
Family: Cyperaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Crested Sedge (Carex cristatella)
Discover the fascinating world of Crested Sedge, a native perennial with unique characteristics and ecological significance.
Common Names
- Crested Sedge
- Crested Oval Sedge
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Carex cristatella Britton
- Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Synonyms: Crested Oval Sedge
- Taxonomic Status: Accepted
Distribution and Habitat
- Crested Sedge is a common species of wet meadows.
- It thrives in moist areas and is often found in sedge meadows, particularly in regions like Iowa and Michigan.
- Prefers full sunlight to part-sun and wet to medium moisture levels.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- This perennial sedge typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet.
- It is a densely tufted sedge that commonly forms tussocks (or hummocks) in wet areas.
- Infertile shoots produce rosette-like clusters of arching leaves.
- Fertile shoots produce culms (stems).
- The spreading perigynia give the spikes a nearly spherical appearance.
- Forms large clumps of vegetative growth.
Ecological Role
- Light green foliage is attractive to game birds and small rodents.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that crested sedge has "prickly spikelets."
Additional Information
- Actively grows during the spring and fall when soil temperatures are cool.
Further Resources
- USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
- Discover Life
- ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System)
- Riveredge Nature Center Plant Field Guide
- iNat taxon page