SafePlants

Greater Tussock-Sedge (Carex paniculata)

Carex paniculata, commonly known as Greater Tussock-sedge, is a perennial herb belonging to the Cyperaceae family. This plant forms distinctive tussocks, making it a notable feature in its habitat.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex paniculata L.
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• Synonyms:
  • Caricina paniculata (L.)
  • Vignea paniculata (L.) Rchb.
  • Carex paniculata subsp. paniculata (a synonym)
  • Carex paniculata var. appressa (R.Br.) Cheeseman (a synonym for Carex appressa R.Br.)

Distribution and Habitat

• Carex paniculata is found in a wide range of habitats, typically base-enriched environments such as swamps, fens, and the edges of lakes and ponds.
• Its distribution includes the Canaries, Cape Verde Islands, Morocco, and extends through western Europe to Scandinavia and eastward.
• Specific locations mentioned include Breary Marsh (Leeds), Ainsdale, and Roudsea Wood (Cumbria).

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a robust, hairless plant that forms dense tussocks, often on shaggy pedestals.
• Stems are triangular in section and range from 60 to 150 mm tall.
• The plant grows to a height of 1.5 meters (5 ft).

Phenology

• Carex paniculata is a perennial plant, hardy to zone (UK) 7.
• It flowers from May to June, and the seeds ripen from June to July.

Hybridization

• Carex paniculata has been known to hybridize with other Carex species, including Carex appropinquata, Carex canescens, and Carex diandra.

Ecological Role

• It is associated with specific woodland types, such as Alnus glutinosa - Carex paniculata woodland.
• It can be a dominant species in wet woodland habitats.

Further Information

• BSBI Handbook Sedges of the British Isles 2nd ed. (Jermy) for identification of Carex species.
• WCSP (World Checklist of Selected Plant Families) database.
• Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex paniculata.