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elk sedge

Scientific Name: Carex garberi

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: IL (elk sedge), IN (elk sedge), ME (Garber's sedge

       

Elk Sedge: A Versatile Western Native

Elk sedge, known for its adaptability and ecological importance, is a fascinating plant with a rich history and diverse uses.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some sources describe Elk-sedge as having sharp edges, especially when growing in water, which could potentially cause minor injury.

Scientific Name and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Carex geyeri F. Boott and Carex garberi Fernald
  • Common Names: Elk sedge, Geyer's sedge, Garber's sedge

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to western North America, ranging from British Columbia to California and Colorado.
  • Also found in New England (Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont), where it is considered rare and protected. Specifically found on calcareous river shores and outcrops.
  • Thrives in dry coniferous forests, such as those near the Klickitat Canyon NRCA on the east side of Mt. Adams.

Ecological Role

  • Important forage for livestock and big game in many areas of the western U.S.
  • Prominent in the Douglas-fir/ninebark community.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • A native, upland, long-lived, perennial sedge.
  • Grows in bunch forms or loose clusters.
  • Typically reaches a height of 6-12 inches.
  • Drought-tolerant and requires moderate to little water.

Quirky Facts

  • The Anglo-Saxon rune poem uses the name "eolh-secg" ("elk-sedge") not to represent the rune's original sound value, but rather as a symbolic representation.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Used in fly fishing; "CDC Elk Sedge Olive" is a type of dry fly.
  • Reported as food source for livestock and big game in western U.S.

Further Information

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
  • Endangered Resces Program