SafePlants

Sheathed Sedge (Carex vaginata)

Carex vaginata, commonly known as sheathed sedge, is a species of sedge with a circumboreal distribution, found throughout the northern regions of the globe.

Considerations for Pets

• Sheathed sedge has leaves that are covered with papillae.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex vaginata
• Common Name: Sheathed Sedge
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge Family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Carex vaginata has a circumboreal distribution.
• It is considered endangered in New England, particularly in Maine and Vermont, which represent the southern limit of its range.
• It has been recently discovered in England (2002).
• Specific locations mentioned include the Klickitat State Wildlife Area of south-central Washington, Iceland, and Anchorage Borough, AK.
• In Britain, it is largely found in the Scottish Highlands.

Morphological Characteristics

• The thickened, yellow apex of the leaf sheaths distinguishes it from other sedges in its subgenus.
• Stems can be single or few together, arising from long, slender creeping structures.
• The lower leaves are long-sheathing and lack blades.

Quirky Facts

• The species name "vaginata" means "sheathed," referring to the long-sheathing lower leaves that lack blades.

Synonyms and Related Species

• It is related to Carex fracta (Fragile Sheathed Sedge).
• It is distinguished from Carex laevivaginata (Smooth-sheathed Sedge).

Further Information

• The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides information on Carex vaginata.
• The Endangered Resces Program offers information, photos, and identification details.
• The Herbarium of the Masaryk University holds a herbarium voucher of this species.
• Discover Life has a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification and distribution of Carex vaginata.