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drooping sedge

Scientific Name: Carex prasina

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: IL (drooping sedge), WI (drooping sedge)

       

Drooping Sedge: A Detailed Look

Drooping sedge refers to several species within the Carex genus, known for their elegant, arching foliage and preference for damp environments. This hardy perennial adds a graceful touch to woodland gardens and rain gardens.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • Some varieties of sedge can spread by rhizomes and form colonies.

Scientific and Common Names

  • Scientific Names:
    • Carex prasina Wahlenb.
    • Carex pendula
    • Carex longebrachiata Boeck.
  • Common Names:
    • Drooping Sedge
    • Pendulous Sedge
    • Hanging Sedge
    • Weeping Sedge
    • Otahuna Sedge

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Carex
  • Family: Cyperaceae

Distribution and Habitat

  • Carex prasina: Native to eastern North America, found in wet woodland areas.
  • Carex pendula: Found in woodland and scrubland.
  • Occurs in deciduous and mixed evergreen forests, especially along streams or in damp areas.

Ecological Role

  • Some sources list it as an unwanted organism.
  • Effective for erosion control.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Grows in dense clumps.
  • Carex prasina: Culms (stems) are green or slightly suffused with maroon at the base; flowering stems are 30-80 cm, usually longer.
  • Carex pendula: The largest of the common sedges.
  • Leaves are dark green and leathery, 3-4 ft (0.9-1.3 m) long, 0.5 in (1.3 cm) wide, growing upward and then drooping.
  • Bears long, pendulous spikes.
  • Will spread by rhizomes to form colonies.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Seed provides sustenance for wildlife.

Further Information

  • Endangered Resources Program: Provides identification information and photos for Carex prasina.
  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database.
  • TERMIUM (Government of Canada's terminology and linguistic data bank).