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largehead sedge

Scientific Name: Carex macrocephala var. macrocephala

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Largehead Sedge (Carex macrocephala)

Carex macrocephala, commonly known as largehead sedge or bighead sedge, is a perennial graminoid belonging to the genus Carex.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant grows in coastal habitats.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant grows in coastal habitats.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Carex macrocephala Willd. ex Spreng.
  • Common Names: Largehead sedge, bighead sedge, large-head sedge, large-headed sedge
  • Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
  • Genus: Carex L.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Carex macrocephala is a coastal plant, found specifically on beaches and along the northern coast of Oregon.
  • It thrives in maritime environments, tolerating exposure to coastal conditions.

Morphological Characteristics

  • It is a coarse, low, and distinctive sedge.
  • The plant reaches a height of approximately 0.2 meters (8 inches).
  • Stems rise to a height of 4-12 inches.
  • It is an evergreen during spring, summer, autumn, and winter, retaining a green color.
  • Adult specimens are medium in size.

Ecological Role

  • Carex macrocephala is identified as a target species by NJISST (presumably related to invasive species monitoring).

Growing Information

  • Seed should be sown in situ (direct sowing) in the spring.
  • It prefers a moist soil and light shade.

Further Information

  • Discover Life offers a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex macrocephala.
  • EDDMapS (Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System) provides resources.