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Carex vulpina

Scientific Name: Carex vulpina

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Carex vulpina: True Fox-Sedge

Carex vulpina, commonly known as True Fox-sedge, is a perennial herb found in wet habitats.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant has spiky stems which may be a physical irritant.
  • The plant has thin, whippy stems.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant has spiky stems which may be a physical irritant.
  • The plant has thin, whippy stems.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Carex vulpina L.
  • Common Name: True Fox-sedge
  • Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms:
    • Carex brotherorum Christ
    • Carex compacta Lam.
    • Carex vulpina var. crassinervis (Schur) Kk.
    • Carex vulpina f. laeviuscula Sanio ex Asch. & Graebn.
    • Vignea vulpina (L.) Rchb.
    • Edritria vulpina (L.) Raf.
    • Carex vulpina var. vulgaris (L.) &#268elak.

Distribution and Habitat

  • This sedge is typically found in wet, open or shaded habitats.
  • It prefers heavy clay soils that are flooded in winter and dry in summer.
  • Common locations include ditches and rivers.
  • It is found in Western, continental Europe and the British Isles.
  • It is also found throughout the North Temperate Zone in Europe, North Africa, Siberia, and North America.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Carex vulpina forms an impressive spreading clump.
  • It features masses of thin, arching, whippy stems.
  • The stems terminate in long spiky structures.
  • It is a perennial plant.

Ecological Role

  • It is associated with wetland habitats such as floodplain meadows, ditches, ponds, and rivers.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Carex vulpina is often confused with Carex otrubae (False Fox-sedge), making identification challenging even for experts. Distinguishing them often requires SEM analysis of the nutlet surface and stomatal morphology.

Further Information

  • Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
  • BSBI List of British & Irish Vascular Plants and Stoneworts