Family: Cyperaceae
Author: Schwein.
Bibliography: Ann. Lyceum Nat. Hist. New York 1: 68 (1824)
Year: 1824
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Carex
Vegetable: False
Observations: SE. Canada to C. & E. U.S.A., Mexico (Puebla)
Description
The Black Edge Sedge, scientifically known as Carex nigromarginata, is a noteworthy species within the Cyperaceae family. This perennial plant is distinguished by its unique morphological features, which make it easily recognizable. Notably, it has sedge characteristics with a dark, defining margin that gives it its common name.
First described in 1824 by the botanist Schweinitz in the Annals of the Lyceum of Natural History of New York, the Black Edge Sedge has since garnered attention for its widespread presence. This species thrives across a broad geographical range, extending from Southeast Canada down through Central and Eastern United States, and as far south as Puebla, Mexico. Its adaptability to a variety of climates and conditions speaks to its resilience and ecological versatility.
The habitat of Carex nigromarginata is typically moist, often favoring wetlands, marshes, and the edges of streams or rivers. This preference for watery environments is typical of many members of the Cyperaceae family. The plant’s structure, with its fine, grass-like leaves and compact growth form, is well-suited to such habitats. Moreover, the dark margins along the edges of its leaves not only contribute to its common name but also aid in the identification of the species among similar sedges.
Ecologically, the Black Edge Sedge plays a significant role in its native habitats. It provides essential cover and food for various wildlife species and helps stabilize the soil in marshy areas, preventing erosion. Its presence in diverse locations from Canada to Mexico highlights its importance in a wide array of ecosystems, making it a valuable component of the flora across North America.
Moreover, Carex nigromarginata can be used in ecological restoration projects and native plant gardens due to its aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. Its capability to thrive in wet conditions makes it an excellent choice for garden enthusiasts looking to create rain gardens or plantings near water features.
In summary, the Black Edge Sedge is an important sedge species with notable ecological and aesthetic value. Its extensive distribution from Southeast Canada to Puebla, Mexico, coupled with its distinctive dark leaf margins, not only aids in its identification but also underscores its adaptability and significance in various ecosystems. First described in the early 19th century by Schweinitz, this plant continues to be of interest for botanists and ecologists alike.
Common Names
Eng: black edge sedge, black-edged sedge
Fra: carex à marge noire
En: Black edge sedge, Black-Edge Sedge, Black-edged sedge
Fr: Carex à marge noire
Fa: کارکس نیگرومارگیناتا
Synonyms
- Carex lucorum (Sartwell ex Boott)
- Carex nigromarginata var. subdigyna (Boeckeler)
- Carex lucorum var. nigromarginata ((Schwein.) Chapm.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Ontario (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Rhode I. (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
Additional Images
Fruit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:324480-2)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2727797)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Carex nigromarginata Schwein.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Graminoid