SafePlants

Long-stolon Sedge (Carex inops)

Carex inops, commonly known as long-stolon sedge, is a perennial graminoid native to northern North America. This species is found throughout the southern regions of its native range.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a sedge, which may have sharp edges on its leaves.
• The plant has stolons which run along the surface of the soil.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex inops L.H. Bailey
• Common Name: Long-stolon sedge, Sun sedge
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• Genus: Carex
• Species: inops
• Subspecies:
  • Carex inops subsp. inops L.H. Bailey
  • Carex inops subsp. heliophila (Mack.) Crins
• Synonyms:
  • Carex pensylvanica
  • Carex pensylvanica var. vespertina
• Alternative Scientific Name: Carex pensylvanica (syn. C. inops)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to northern North America.
• Specifically mentioned as growing in Northern California, primarily in the High Cascade Range region.
• Found on open slopes.
• Grows in mixed conifer/snowbrush plant associations on well-drained soils of outwash plains and butte toeslopes.

Morphological Characteristics

• Loosely caespitose (tufted) perennial graminoid.
• Low to medium statured compared to other Carex species.
• Culms (stems) reach approximately 4 inches in height.
• Root system produces long stolons that run along the surface of the soil.
• Forms small loose tufts of leafy culms.

Ecological Role

• Mentioned in the context of plant associations, such as Oregon white oak / long-stolon sedge.
• Increases in cover when Douglas-fir is selectively logged in oak stands.
• Forms groundcover, spreading via stolons.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Forms plant associations with species like Oregon white oak, common snowberry, and Douglas fir.

Further Information

• Montana Field Guide
• Dave's Garden
• Discover Life
• Fire Effects Information System
• Flora of North America
• USDA Plants Database