SafePlants

Richwoods Sedge (Carex oligocarpa)

Carex oligocarpa, commonly known as Richwoods Sedge, is a perennial sedge found in various locations across the eastern United States.

Considerations for Pets

• The culms (stems) are described as triangular and stiff, which could pose a minor physical hazard if chewed on by pets.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Carex oligocarpa Schkuhr ex Willd.
• Common Names: Richwoods Sedge, Eastern Few-fruit Sedge, Few-fruited Sedge, Rich Woods Sedge.
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Carex oligocarpa Willd.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to rich woods of the eastern U.S.
• Specifically mentioned as being found in:
  • Connecticut (Endangered)
  • Vermont (Endangered)
  • Massachusetts
  • Maryland (Allegany County, Frederick County)
• Also found in Minnesota, Maine, and south to Alabama.
• Grows in rich woods, moist stream banks, swamp margins, emergent sedge marshes, sedge meadows, fens, and shores of streams. Prefers maple-basswood-ash woods.

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial sedge, 8-18 inches tall.
• Culms (stems): Ascending to spreading, slender, triangular, stiff, rough beneath the inflorescence, dark purplish-red at base.
• Flower Color: Green, yellow, brown.
• Flower Arrangement: Spike.

Ecological Role

• A developing species list of grasses, sedges, and rushes in Floracliff Nature Sanctuary includes Richwoods Sedge.

Quirky Facts

• Seersucker sedge makes a great texture plant.

Further Information

• Discover Life has a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex oligocarpa.
• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database provides information, including images (Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913).
• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for gardening tips and ideas.