SafePlants

Black Sedge (Carex nigra)

The term "Black Sedge" (and variations such as "Little Black Sedge," "Common Sedge," or "Smooth Black Sedge") can refer to multiple plant taxa, but often refers to Carex nigra. This plant is also sometimes referred to as "Black Horned Sedge".

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is often found near water sources.
• The plant is sometimes used in constructed wetlands and could be found in gardens.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex nigra (L.) Reichard
• Common Names: Common Sedge, Black Sedge, Smooth Black Sedge

Distribution and Habitat

• The eastern limit of its range reaches central Siberia, Turkey, and possibly beyond.
• Pyrenean black sedge acidic fens are dominated by Carex nigra.
• It has a restricted distribution in Britain.
• Grows in moist to wet soil or shallow water.

Morphological Characteristics

• Smooth black sedge has dramatic purple-brown to black scales that only partially cover the perigynia (sacs surrounding the seed).
• The plant is a low, grassy groundcover.

Uses

• It can be used in rock gardens.
• It is found in Black Sedge Peat, which is used in melon crop cultivation.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Sedges are an important part of the trout's diet.
• Imitated by anglers using artificial flies.
• Serves as food source for carp.
• The three styles of Glaucous Sedge are the fuzzy pale cream things protruding from the dark-brown glumes. (The similar Black Sedge has but two styles).

Further Information

• RHS: Carex nigra (L.) Reichard black sedge
• Endangered Resces Program
• Dave's Garden: a community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
• The Plant List
• ToL (Tree of Life Web Project)
• BHL (Biodiversity Heritage Library)
• WikiSpecies