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Shasta sedge

Scientific Name: Carex straminiformis

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Carex straminiformis - Shasta Sedge

Carex straminiformis is a species of sedge known commonly as Shasta sedge.

Considerations for Pets

  • As a sedge, Carex straminiformis is grass-like and may be tempting for pets to graze on.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Carex straminiformis
  • Common Name: Shasta Sedge, Mt. Shasta Sedge
  • Family: Cyperaceae (mentioned in relation to other Carex species)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the Western United States.
  • Found in locations like the Mt. Adams Wilderness (at approximately 7200 feet).
  • Mentioned in the Upper Shasta Valley-Subsection M261Dc, Shasta Valley area, north of Mt. Big.

Ecological Role

  • Found in Sedge meadow communities.
  • The Shasta red fir historic plant association is at the southeastern and of the Shasta red fir association is limited, but grasses and sedges are most common.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Described as a perennial grasslike herb.
  • Also described as Straw like sedge.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Honey bees were observed nectaring on a related sedge species (Carex trifeda) at the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden, suggesting a potential pollinator relationship for sedges in general.
  • Serves as a habitat and food source for some animals like the Sedge Wren, a bird present from 4 to 8 November 1980 at Bolinas 8 June to 4 July 1986 in Little Shasta Valley, Siskiyou County.

Quirky Facts

  • The Shasta people of California traditionally used sedge for basketry, indicating a historical and cultural significance beyond its ecological role.
  • Carex straminiformis shares a name with dog breeds, suggesting the name "Shasta" has broader cultural associations.

Further Information

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Discover Life page about Carex straminiformis
  • Shasta chapter of the California Native Plant Society (CNPS)