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dunhead sedge

Scientific Name: Carex phaeocephala

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Dunhead Sedge (Carex phaeocephala)

Carex phaeocephala, commonly known as dunhead sedge, is a species of sedge native to western North America. It's often found at high elevations, growing on rocky slopes and forming large clumps.

Common Names

  • Dunhead Sedge
  • Mountain Hare Sedge
  • Hare Sedge
  • Dunehead Sedge
  • Brown-head Sedge

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Carex phaeocephala Piper
  • Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to western North America.
  • Found in high-elevation environments, such as rocky ridges and tundra.
  • Observed in locations like Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, Oregon and Mt. Adams, Washington.
  • Grows on rocky slopes and open scree slopes.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Forms thick mats of roots.
  • Leaves resemble those of grasses or other sedges, making identification challenging in the absence of flowers.

Other Interesting Facts

  • Dunhead Sedge may be confused for grasses or sedges.
  • Fertilizing may be beneficial every 15-20 days during certain times of the year.

Further Information

  • Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex phaeocephala.
  • Government of Canada’s terminology and linguistic data bank: TERMIUM.
  • University of Georgia: John Ruter has foliage images of Carex phaeocephala.
  • NIISS.org: Includes species profile, habitat, control and life history information.