SafePlants

Sand Sedges: Guardians of the Coast

Sand sedges are a group of plants well-adapted to the harsh conditions of coastal sand dunes, playing a crucial role in stabilizing these dynamic environments. Several species fall under the umbrella of "sand sedge," each with unique characteristics and distributions.

Considerations for Pets

• Some sand sedge species spread via rhizomes (underground stems), which could be dug up by curious animals.

Considerations for Children

• Sand sedges are commonly found in coastal areas, including dunes, where children may play.

Scientific Names and Common Names

• Carex arenaria: Commonly known as Sand Sedge.
• Carex kobomugi: Commonly known as Asiatic Sand Sedge.
• Carex incurviformis: Commonly known as Coastal Sand Sedge, Seaside Sedge, or Curved Spike Sedge.
• Ficinia spiralis: Synonymous with P?ngao, P?kao, Golden Sand Sedge, Cutty Grass, or Tumbleweed.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Carex incurviformis may also be known as Carex maritima var. incurviformis.
• Carex kobomugi belongs to the family Cyperaceae.

Distribution and Habitat

• Sand sedges are typically found in coastal habitats, particularly sand dunes.
• Carex arenaria is common on coastal sites.
• Carex kobomugi (Asiatic Sand Sedge) is native to East Asia and has been introduced to coastal areas of the northeast USA.
• Ficinia spiralis (P?ngao) is endemic to New Zealand, including the Chatham Islands.
• Carex arenaria is found along the coast in Ireland and Finland.

Ecological Role

• Sand sedges are important for dune stabilization. Their rhizomes help to bind the sand together.
• Carex kobomugi (Asiatic Sand Sedge) is considered an invasive species in some regions, impacting native species diversity. Its spread rate is a concern in areas like New Jersey.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Sand sedges are perennial plants.
• They spread via underground stems called rhizomes.
• Ficinia spiralis (P?ngao) is a coastal sedge.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Sand sedges provide habitat for various organisms, including birds, reptiles, and insects.
• They often grow alongside other coastal plants such as Sea Holly (Eryngium maritimum), Sea Bindweed (Calystegia soldanella), Red Fescue (Festuca rubra), Marram grass, heather, bell heather, lichens, and mosses.

Quirky Facts

• Ficinia spiralis, also known as P?ngao, is referred to as "T?ne's eyebrows" in some contexts, reflecting its cultural significance in New Zealand.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers resources on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex incurviformis.