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Schweinitz's sedge
Scientific Name: Carex schweinitzii
Family: Cyperaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid
Duration: Perennial
Other Names: CT (Schweinitz's sedge), MA (Schweinitz's sedge),
Schweinitz's Sedge: A Globally Rare Wetland Plant
Schweinitz's sedge, scientifically known as Carex schweinitzii, is a globally rare perennial sedge belonging to the Cyperaceae (Sedge) family. It is also commonly known as Schweinitz's sedge or Rough Sand Sedge.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Carex schweinitzii Dewey ex Schwein.
- Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)
- Genus: Carex
- Species: schweinitzii
- Synonyms:
- Cyperus schweinitzii (Schweinitz's Umbrella Sedge/Schweinitz's Flatsedge). Note that Cyperus schweinitzii is also referred to as Schweinitz's umbrella sedge.
- Mariscus schweinitzii (Torr.) T. Koyama
- Carex schweinitzii Dewey ex Schweinitz
Distribution and Habitat
- Schweinitz's sedge is found in cool, open, calcareous wetlands.
- In New England, it primarily occurs along the western edges of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
- It grows in open calcareous swamps and marshes.
- There are seventeen known populations and nearly 50 historical locations. Some of these historical locations could not be relocated after multiple surveys.
Morphological Characteristics
- Culms are erect or ascending, 3-sided, and usually rough near the tip.
- Leaves are usually flat, but edges are occasionally rolled under.
- Height ranges from 10 to 20 inches.
Ecological Role
- Schweinitz's sedge provides habitat for butterflies such as Dion skipper in some locations.
- It is considered highly vulnerable in some locations.
Further Information
- Schweinitz's Sedge USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
- Endangered Resces Program including identification information, photos, and links.