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pubescent sedge

Scientific Name: Carex hirtifolia

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: TN (pubescent sedge)

       

Carex hirtifolia: Pubescent Sedge

Carex hirtifolia, commonly known as pubescent sedge, hairy sedge, or hairy wood sedge, is a species of sedge found in northeastern North America.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • This sedge has pubescent (hairy) leaf blades, sheaths, culms, and perigynia, which may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals or animals.
  • The plant produces seeds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Carex hirtifolia
  • Common Names: Pubescent Sedge, Hairy Sedge, Hairy Wood Sedge, Hairy-leaved Sedge
  • Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Carex pubescens (although this may be contested in some databases)
  • French Name: Carex à feuilles poilues
  • It is the only species in Carex section Hirtifoliae.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to northeastern North America.
  • Found in rich woods and meadows.
  • Specifically mentioned in New Brunswick, south to (presumably) other parts of northeastern North America. Rare in New Brunswick, with a few known locations.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Entire plant is softly pubescent, including the distinctly beaked perigynia.
  • Perigynia are veinless except for two distinct ribs.
  • Height ranges from 0.5 to 1 foot.
  • Flowering time is in late spring.
  • Growth habit is clumped and grass-like.
  • Leaf blades and sheaths are pubescent (hairy). Sheaths may be glabrous or pubescent.

Ecological Role

  • Found in mesic to dry-mesic habitats.

Quirky Facts

  • The plant's pubescence (hairiness) extends to all parts, including the leaf blades, sheaths, culms, and even the perigynia.

Further Information

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Discover Life
  • Brooklyn Botanic Garden New York Metropolitan Flora Project (NYMF)
  • Dave's Garden
  • Chicago Botanic Garden's Seeds of Success program.