SafePlants

Twisted Sedge (Carex torta)

Twisted sedge, scientifically known as Carex torta, is a fascinating plant often found gracing the edges of rivers and streams. Its common name, "Twisted Sedge," aptly describes its unique characteristics.

Considerations for Pets:

• This sedge has a grass-like appearance and can be fertilized.

Considerations for Children:

• This sedge has a grass-like appearance and can be fertilized.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex torta Boott ex Tuckerm.
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: The provided text does not list explicit synonyms, but "Carex torta Boott ex Tuck." is mentioned multiple times, indicating its accepted scientific name.

Distribution and Habitat

• Twisted sedge thrives in rocky and gravelly environments along river shores and stream banks.
• It often forms a narrow community at the base of high-energy riverbanks, near the river channel's edge.
• It is regionally rare in the North Carolina Piedmont.
• It is found in Erie County, New York.
• It has been identified as a new community type on cobble rivershores in Maine.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a perennial herbaceous plant.
• It typically grows to a height of 8-24 inches.
• It is a graminoid, meaning it resembles grass.
• The perigynium (a sac enclosing the ovary) has a distinctive triangular, flat tip at the apex.
• It is a skinny fruiting species.

Ecological Role

• It can be a dominant species alongside Joe-Pye-weed (Eutrochium fistulosum) and pale St. John's-wort (Hypericum ellipticum).

Further Information

• Discover Life has a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex torta.
• The Brooklyn Botanic Garden New York Metropolitan Flora Project (NYMF) has a photo page dedicated to Carex torta.
• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center