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burr reed sedge

Scientific Name: Carex sparganioides

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: ME (bur-reed sedge), NH (bur sedge), RI (burreed-l

       

Bur-reed Sedge (Carex sparganioides)

Bur-reed sedge, scientifically known as Carex sparganioides, is a perennial plant belonging to the sedge family (Cyperaceae). It is also referred to as bur reed sedge or burr reed sedge.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Carex sparganioides
  • Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Synonyms: Carex sparganioides Muhl. ex Willd.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to most of the Eastern United States.
  • Found in rich, moist deciduous forests, forest edges, and dry to moist woods.
  • Can be found across much of the United States.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Perennial, tufted sedge with poorly developed rhizomes growing in bunches.
  • Flowering stems (culms) grow 12 to 40 inches high, erect.
  • Inflorescence spikes are relatively scattered along the stem for up to 10 cm.
  • Features large reddish-brown, hedge-hog-like flowers.
  • Bright green foliage enhances the flower appearance.

Ecological Role

  • Forms part of swamp vegetation communities.
  • Found in marsh and sedge meadow habitats.
  • Occurs in lake edge vegetation.

Additional Information

  • Bur-reed sedge looks equally good in a container or in the landscape.
  • Bare root plants are typically shipped during the optimal transplanting seasons: Fall (October) or Spring (April/May).

Resources

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
  • Discover Life
  • TERMIUM (Government of Canada's terminology and linguistic data bank)