Categories: Cyperaceae

Awlfruit sedge (Carex stipata, Sp. Pl., ed. 4, 4: 233 (1805))

Family: Cyperaceae

Author: Muhl. ex Willd.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl., ed. 4, 4: 233 (1805)

Year: 1805

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Carex

Vegetable: False

Observations: Russian Far East to C. China, Japan, Canada to U.S.A.

Description

Awlfruit sedge, a versatile and widespread member of the Cyperaceae family, is botanically known as Carex stipata. The plant was first documented in the fourth edition of “Species Plantarum” by the esteemed botanist Muhl. ex Willd. in 1805, signifying its long-standing recognition in the botanical world.

This resilient sedge is native to vast regions ranging from the Russian Far East to Central China and Japan, extending its habitat across North America from Canada to the United States. Such geographical diversity underscores the adaptability of Carex stipata to different climates and environments.

Characterized by its robust and clumping growth habit, Awlfruit sedge thrives in moist, riparian environments such as wetlands, ditches, and along stream banks. It features narrow leaves and distinctive seed heads that resemble small awls, contributing to its common name. The plant plays a vital role in preventing soil erosion due to its dense root system and is often utilized in restoration projects for stabilizing disturbed soils.

Carex stipata not only serves ecological functions but also offers aesthetic value in native and naturalistic landscape designs. Its lush green foliage and uniform structure provide a subtle yet impactful element to garden compositions, particularly in areas mimicking natural waterways or wet meadows.

In conclusion, Awlfruit sedge (Carex stipata) is a notable species within the Cyperaceae family, recognized for its extensive range, ecological benefits, and adaptability. Its botanical legacy, habitat preferences, and practical applications highlight its importance in both natural ecosystems and human-managed landscapes.

Common Names

Eng: awlfruit sedge, owlfruit sedge, sawbeak sedge, stalk-grain sedge, awl-fruited sedge, common fox sedge, prickly sedge, saw-beak sedge, stipitate sedge
Fra: carex stipité, carex spongieux, laiche épaisse
En: Awlfruit sedge, Stalk-Grain Sedge, Owlfruit sedge, SAWBEAK SEDGE, Awl-fruited sedge, Common fox sedge, Prickly sedge, Saw-beak sedge, Stipitate sedge
Zh: 海绵基苔草, 海绵基薹草
Fr: Carex stipité, Carex spongieux, Laiche épaisse
Ru: Осока стеснённая

Synonyms

Vignea stipata ((Muhl. ex Willd.) Rchb.)
Loncoperis stipata ((Muhl. ex Willd.) Raf.)

Distribution

Alabama (native)
Alaska (native)
Alberta (native)
Arizona (native)
British Columbia (native)
California (native)
China South-Central (native)
Colorado (native)
Connecticut (native)
Delaware (native)
District of Columbia (native)
Florida (native)
Georgia (native)
Idaho (native)
Illinois (native)
Indiana (native)
Iowa (native)
Japan (native)
Kansas (native)
Kentucky (native)
Korea (native)
Kuril Is. (native)
Labrador (native)
Maine (native)
Manchuria (native)
Manitoba (native)
Maryland (native)
Masachusettes (native)
Michigan (native)
Minnesota (native)
Missouri (native)
Montana (native)
Nebraska (native)
New Brunswick (native)
New Hampshire (native)
New Jersey (native)
New Mexico (native)
New York (native)
Newfoundland (native)
North Carolina (native)
North Dakota (native)
Nova Scotia (native)
Ohio (native)
Oklahoma (native)
Ontario (native)
Oregon (native)
Pennsylvania (native)
Primorye (native)
Prince Edward I. (native)
Québec (native)
Rhode I. (native)
Saskatchewan (native)
South Carolina (native)
South Dakota (native)
Tennessee (native)
Texas (native)
Utah (native)
Vermont (native)
Virginia (native)
Washington (native)
West Virginia (native)
Wisconsin (native)
Wyoming (native)