SafePlants

Fringed Sedge (Carex crinita)

The fringed sedge, scientifically known as Carex crinita, is a striking grass-like plant appreciated for its ornamental value and ecological benefits.

Common Names

• Fringed Sedge
• Drooping Sedge

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex crinita Lam.
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)
• Division: Magnoliaphyta
• Class: Liliopsida
• Subclass: Commelinidae
• Order: Cyperales

Distribution and Habitat

Carex crinita is a wetland native commonly found in wet meadows, marshes, streams, and seeps. Its natural range includes areas of Wisconsin and Minnesota. It can be found in Wicomico and Cecil Counties in Maryland.

Considerations for Pets

Carex crinita has strap-like leaves. The plant also produces seeds that could be a consideration.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Fringed sedge is a perennial sedge that grows in dense tussocks (clumps) from short creeping rhizomes.
• It typically reaches a height of 2-3 feet (0.3-1.5 meters).
• The culms (stems) are light green, 3-angled, and glabrous (smooth).
• It features clusters of dangling green flower heads from May to June, which develop into persistent seed heads.
• The plant has shiny evergreen leaves and forms colonies over time.

Ecological Role

• Fringed sedge is a cool-season plant, actively growing during the spring and fall when soil temperatures are cool.
• It provides food and cover for wildlife.
• This sedge is known to be eaten by a variety of insects.
• While valued as a space filler, it can be invasive in certain settings.
• It is a good option for erosion control and shoreline stabilization.

Quirky Facts

• The name "Fringed Sedge" comes from the abundance of hanging seedheads produced by the plant.

Cultivation

• It thrives in wet to medium soil conditions, from full sun to full shade.
• It is suitable for native gardens, rain gardens, and shoreline stabilization.
• Suggested companion plants include other sedges and swamp milkweed (Asclepias).

Further Information

• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS): Provides help and information on Carex crinita.
• Discover Life: Offers details about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex crinita.
• San Antonio River Authority: Information available about Carex crinita.
• Georgia Botanical Society: Provides information about Carex crinita.