Family: Cyperaceae
Author: Dewey
Bibliography: Amer. J. Sci. Arts 29: 248 (1836)
Year: 1836
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Carex
Vegetable: False
Observations: Russian Far East, Subarctic America to W. U.S.A.
Description
The Showy Sedge, scientifically known as Carex spectabilis, is a remarkable plant species notable for its striking appearance and adaptability to diverse climates. First documented in the American Journal of Science and Arts in 1836 by Dewey, this perennial sedge belongs to the Cyperaceae family, a large group of grass-like plants commonly referred to as the sedge family.
Carex spectabilis thrives in a variety of regions, with observations spanning the Russian Far East, subarctic areas of America, and extending to the western United States. This wide distribution speaks to the plant’s resilience and versatility, enabling it to grow in different environmental conditions ranging from cold, subarctic climates to more temperate zones.
The visual appeal of Showy Sedge lies in its vibrant, showy spikes of flowers and foliage, which contribute to its name. The plant typically features long, arching leaves and distinctive flowers that stand out with their unique structure and coloration, making it a favored choice for gardeners and landscape designers seeking to add a touch of natural beauty to their projects.
Adapted to wet, marshy habitats, Showy Sedge plays a crucial role in its ecosystem. It often grows in meadows, along stream banks, and in moist forested areas, where it helps to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. Additionally, it provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the regions it inhabits.
In summary, Carex spectabilis or Showy Sedge is a notable member of the Cyperaceae family, valued for its aesthetic appeal and ecological importance. Documented extensively in scientific literature since the early 19th century, this plant continues to be a significant subject of study and admiration in botany and horticulture.
Common Names
Eng: showy sedge, northwestern showy sedge
Fra: carex remarquable
En: Showy sedge, Northwestern Showy Sedge
Fr: Carex remarquable
Synonyms
- Carex tolmiei (Boott)
- Carex spectabilis f. chrysantha (Holm)
- Carex spectabilis var. elegantula (Holm)
- Carex spectabilis var. gelida (Holm)
- Carex nigella (Boott)
- Carex tolmiei var. invisa ((L.H.Bailey) Kük.)
- Carex spectabilis var. superba (Holm)
- Carex invisa (L.H.Bailey)
- Carex spectabilis f. alpina (Holm)
- Carex tolmiei var. nigella ((Boott) L.H.Bailey)
- Carex melastoma (Fisch. ex Boott)
Distribution
- Alaska (native)
- Alberta (native)
- Aleutian Is. (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- California (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Kamchatka (native)
- Magadan (native)
- Montana (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
- Yukon (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jan 2, 2015 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Jan 4, 2015 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Dec 21, 2014 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 30, 2014 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 30, 2014 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2723145)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:302334-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Carex spectabilis Dewey)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Graminoid
