Oval-leaf sedge (Carex cephalophora, Sp. Pl., ed. 4, 4: 220 (1805))

Family: Cyperaceae

Author: Muhl. ex Willd.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl., ed. 4, 4: 220 (1805)

Year: 1805

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Carex

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. Canada to C. & E. U.S.A.

Description

Oval-leaf sedge, scientifically named Carex cephalophora, is a notable species within the Cyperaceae family. This perennial herb is distinguished by its unique oval-shaped leaves, which contribute to its common name. First classified in 1805, this sedge has been a subject of interest in plant taxonomy, thanks to the meticulous work of botanist Muhlenberg, later recognized and documented by Willdenow in the essential botanical volume “Species Plantarum.”

Primarily found across southeastern Canada and the central to eastern regions of the United States, Carex cephalophora inhabits a diverse range of ecosystems. It thrives in both wooded areas and open fields, often favoring well-drained soils and partial to full sunlight. This geographical distribution highlights the plant’s adaptability and ecological value across several climatic zones.

Oval-leaf sedge plays a critical role in its environment, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species. Its dense clumps offer cover for small mammals and birds, while its seeds are a food source for insects and other animals. Additionally, Carex cephalophora contributes to soil health through its deep, fibrous root system, which helps prevent erosion and maintains soil structure.

Recognized for its understated beauty and ecological importance, Oval-leaf sedge continues to be a vital component of North American flora, offering researchers and plant enthusiasts insight into the intricate balance of natural habitats.

Common Names

Eng: oval-leaf sedge, oval-leaved sedge, oval-headed sedge, short-headed bracted sedge, woodbank sedge
Fra: carex porte-tête
En: Oval-leaf sedge, Oval-leaved sedge, Oval-headed sedge, Short-headed bracted sedge, Woodbank sedge
Fr: Carex porte-tête

Synonyms

• Carex cephalophora var. anomala (Farw.)
• Diemisa cephalophora ((Muhl. ex Willd.) Raf.)
• Carex cephalophora var. maxima (Dewey)
• Vignea cephalophora ((Muhl. ex Willd.) Rchb.)
• Carex cephalophora var. bracteosa (Farw.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Delaware (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maine (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Germany (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. (public)

Taken May 4, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Hipp (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 4, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Hipp (cc-by-nc-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 4, 2008 by EOL − Chicago Botanic Garden 2008 (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 4, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Hipp (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 20, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Gardner (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 20, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Gardner (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken Jun 4, 2008 by EOL − Chicago Botanic Garden 2008 (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 20, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Gardner (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 20, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Gardner (cc-by-nc-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jun 4, 2008 by EOL − Chicago Botanic Garden 2008 (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 20, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Gardner (cc-by)

Bark

Taken Apr 20, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Gardner (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2724783)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:20008042-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Carex cephalophora Muhl. ex Willd.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Bunch

Growth habit>: Graminoid

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.0

Ph minimum: 4.8