SafePlants

Knob Sedge (Carex inversa)

Knob Sedge, scientifically known as Carex inversa, is a perennial plant belonging to the Cyperaceae family. It is also known by the common names Kangaroo Sedge and Creeping Lawn Sedge.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex inversa R. Br.
• Family: Cyperaceae
• Kingdom: Plants
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms/Alternative Names: Kangaroo Sedge, Creeping Lawn Sedge, Dwarf Sedge (Carex paupera - potentially confused with Carex inversa)
• USDA PLANTS Symbol: CAIN49

Distribution and Habitat

• Knob Sedge occurs widely through the landscape, especially in damper soils.
• It can colonize open sites.
• Specific locations mentioned: Williamsdale, NSW; Tuggeranong Hill; Wollamai Point, northern shore of Lake Illawarra, New South Wales.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a perennial plant with long underground stems (rhizomes).
• Culms (stems) are erect, terete (round in cross-section), and smooth, typically 10–50 cm long, but can be shorter (as little as 1 cm).
• It is a tufted or rhizomatous sedge, mostly with triangular stems without nodes.
• Leaves are pale green and grass-like.

Ecological Role

• The text mentions deeproot sedge reproductive potential, indicating a potential for competitive growth. The reproductive potential was 2.6-, 6.2-, and 17.4-fold greater than Surinam, green, and knob sedges, respectively.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex inversa.
• Dave's Garden provides a community forum for sharing tips and ideas about gardens.
• ALA (Atlas of Living Australia) is referenced for flora information.