SafePlants

Idaho Sedge (Carex idahoa)

Carex idahoa, commonly known as Idaho Sedge, is a graminoid belonging to the genus Carex.

Considerations for Pets

• Sedges, in general (Carex), have triangular stems.
• The text mentions potential allergies to sedges (Carex) and flat sedges (Cyperus).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex idahoa L.H. Bailey
• Common Name: Idaho Sedge
• Family: Cyperaceae (True Sedges)
• Synonym: Carex parryana ssp. idahoa (Bailey) D.F. Murr.
• Taxonomic Status: Accepted

Distribution and Habitat

• Idaho Sedge is a regional endemic found in Montana, clustered in approximately 15-20 populations, mostly on public land.
• It is also found in Idaho, California, Oregon and Washington.
• The California Native Plant Society lists it as Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California but more common elsewhere.
• It is associated with wetland environments, including sedge marshes and meadows.

Morphological Characteristics

• Sedges in the Carex genus typically have triangular stems.
• Leaves are arranged in a 3-ranked pattern.
• Flowers can be bisexual or unisexual.
• It is a perennial, meaning it grows year after year.

Ecological Role

• Idaho Sedge is a valuable forage species for wildlife and livestock.
• It is mentioned as part of specific plant communities, such as the "Idaho Fescue/Threadleaf Sedge Cushion Plant Community."
• It serves as a habitat for insects like the Taiga Bluet dragonfly in sedge marshes.

Quirky Facts

• Sedge peat is described as a granular organic material made of partially decomposed sedges.

Further Information

• USDA NRCS Idaho Plant Materials Program
• Idaho Conservation Data Center
• University of Idaho Extension, Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station
• Wildland Field Plant Identification, Range 252, University of Idaho