SafePlants

Britton's Sedge (Carex tetrastachya)

Britton's Sedge, scientifically known as Carex tetrastachya Scheele, is a graminoid plant within the genus Carex. It is also known by the synonym Carex brittoniana.

Considerations for Pets

• As a member of the sedge family, its leaves may have sharp edges, which could cause minor irritation if ingested by animals.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex tetrastachya Scheele
• Common Name: Britton's Sedge
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)
• Genus: Carex
• Synonym: Carex brittoniana

Distribution and Habitat

• The text mentions its presence in Oklahoma (OK) and Louisiana (LA).
• It is associated with wetland environments, as suggested by the reference to wetland surveys.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is described as a perennial graminoid, meaning it lives for more than two years and resembles grass.
• Other Carex species are described as having 3-angled stems and female flowers enclosed in a sac-like structure.

Related Species

• The text mentions other Carex species, including:
  • Carex rossii (Ross's Sedge)
  • Carex festucacea (Fescue Sedge)
  • Carex stricta (Tussock Sedge)
  • Carex bicknellii (Tufted perennial with smooth stems)
  • Carex albicans (Whitetinge sedge)
  • Carex reniformis (Kidneyshape caric sedge)
  • Carex torreyi (Torrey's Sedge)
  • Carex torta (Twisted Sedge)
  • Carex triangularis
  • Carex williamsii (Willdenow's Sedge)
  • Carex superata
• The text also mentions Dulichium arundinaceum (threeway sedge), another member of the Cyperaceae family.

Resources and Further Information

• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a source for gardening tips and ideas.
• The BioSurvey at the University of Oklahoma is listed as a resource.
• Britton and Brown's Illustrated Flora is mentioned as a reference.