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heath sedge
Scientific Name: Carex flacca
Family: Cyperaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Heath Sedge (Carex flacca)
Carex flacca, commonly known as Heath Sedge, is a perennial sedge found in various habitats.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- Sedges, rushes, and grasses can have sharp edges.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Carex flacca
- Common Names: Heath Sedge, Glaucous Sedge, Blue Sedge
- Synonyms: Carex glauca (mentioned as an AKA for Blue Sedge)
- Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies (Carex flacca subsp. flacca is mentioned)
- Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
Distribution and Habitat
- Found in the British Isles (Brit Isles).
- Prefers acid to neutral soils.
- Habitats include heath fens, lawns, and heath meadows, especially in alpine areas.
- Mentioned in the Presidential Range of New England and other high alpine areas.
Morphological Characteristics
- A perennial sedge that grows up to 40 cm (16 inches) tall.
- Grows in dense tufts.
- Stems are erect and made up of overlapping sheaths.
Ecological Role
- Heath Sedge can be invasive.
- Plays a role in alpine moss-sedge heath communities.
- Can be codominant with moss species such as Racomitrium lanuginosum in heath environments.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Observed in locations alongside other plants such as heather and various grasses.
- Associated with specific butterfly species like the Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, and Small Heath.
Further Information
- Information available on Invasive.org, a joint project of the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health and USDA APHIS PPQ.
- USDA PLANTS Symbol: CAFL8