SafePlants

Lakeshore Sedge (Carex lenticularis)

Carex lenticularis is a species of sedge with the common names lakeshore sedge and goosegrass sedge. Other common names include Enander's sedge, fewrib sedge, Kellogg sedge, lens-fruited sedge, shore sedge, and tufted sedge.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex lenticularis Michx.
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• Synonyms: Carex kelloggii
• Subspecies/Varieties:
  • Carex lenticularis var. lipocarpa
  • Carex lenticularis var. lenticularis

Distribution and Habitat

This sedge is native to much of northern North America. It is a common species found on lake and stream shorelines, especially where the substrate is sandy, gravelly, or rocky. It's also found in wetland environments such as bogs and shrubland areas, even at high altitudes.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Lakeshore sedge typically forms a dense tussock of leafy culms.
• It is a perennial sedge.
• The plant tends to grow vertically, exhibiting a columnar development, and is evergreen.
• Some varieties form caespitose clumps with slender, erect culms and leaves clustered low.
• Height can reach up to 90 cm (approximately 3 feet).

Ecological Role

Lakeshore sedge has an extensive root system, making it an important component of habitat restoration and bank stabilization. It may be considered desirable in areas where control of other sedges is needed.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex lenticularis.
• Field guide to Intermountain sedges. General Technical Report RMS-GTR-10. USDA Forest Service, RMRS, Ogden.