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Mertens' sedge
Scientific Name: Carex mertensii
Family: Cyperaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Mertens' Sedge (Carex mertensii)
Carex mertensii, commonly known as Mertens' sedge, is a species of sedge native to western North America.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant can grow in moist to wet areas, which might be attractive to pets who like to dig or play in water.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Carex mertensii Prescott ex Bong.
- Common Name: Mertens' sedge, Purple sedge
- Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
- Synonyms:
- Carex michrochaeta Holm, small-awned sedge
- Carex michrochaeta Holm ssp. nesophila (Holm) E. Murr.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to western North America, ranging from Alaska to California and east to Montana.
- Found growing in moist to wet areas, including wet roadside ditches.
- Observed in locations like Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and Sweet Home, Oregon.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Forms clumps with bright green leaves.
- Grows to a height of 16-40 inches (approximately 40-100 cm).
- Features draping flower spikelets that are 1-3 inches long.
- Blooms from May to August.
Other Information
- Prefers partial sun.
Further Resources
- Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex mertensii.
- TERMIUM: The Government of Canada's terminology and linguistic data bank.