SafePlants

Hitchcock's Sedge (Carex hitchcockiana)

Hitchcock's Sedge, scientifically known as Carex hitchcockiana Dewey, is a perennial graminoid belonging to the Sedge Family (Cyperaceae). It's also referred to as carex de Hitchcock in some regions.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex hitchcockiana Dewey
• Common Name: Hitchcock's Sedge
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)
• Genus: Carex L.
• Author: Dewey

Considerations for Pets

This plant has coarse hairs on the leaf sheaths and is described as having sharply 3-angled culms. These characteristics could potentially cause minor skin irritation if handled or ingested by pets.

Considerations for Children

The plant is described as having sharply 3-angled culms which might be a minor irritant.

Distribution and Habitat

This sedge is native to Canada and is typically found in high-pH bedrock forests and woodlands. It has also been observed in upland forest habitats, rich sugar maple woods, and limestone-rich areas.

Morphological Characteristics

• Hitchcock's Sedge is a clumping sedge, forming small tufts of culms.
• It is a perennial, meaning it grows year after year.
• The plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet.
• Culms are light to medium green and sharply 3-angled.
• It has alternate leaves.
• Flowers are green, yellow, or brown and arranged in a spike.

Ecological Role

Hitchcock's Sedge plays a role in upland forest habitats and limestone-loving plant communities.

Interactions with Other Organisms

Species in the Carex genus have tiny, wind-pollinated flowers, indicating a reliance on wind for reproduction. It is also associated with limestone-loving plants such as Sprengell's Sedge.

Further Information

For more detailed information on Hitchcock's Sedge and other members of the Carex genus, consult a technical manual such as "Carex, a technical manual". Image 1117191 from the USDA Agricultural Research Service shows the fruit of Carex hitchcockiana.