Smallwing sedge (Carex microptera, Muhlenbergia 5: 56 (1909))

Family: Cyperaceae

Author: Mack.

Bibliography: Muhlenbergia 5: 56 (1909)

Year: 1909

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Carex

Vegetable: False

Observations: Yukon to W. & WC. U.S.A., Mexico

Description

The Smallwing sedge, scientifically known as Carex microptera, is a remarkable member of the Cyperaceae family. First described in the scientific literature by Mack. in Muhlenbergia 5 on page 56 in the year 1909, this plant has garnered attention for its resilience and adaptability across varied geographical regions.

Native to an extensive range that spans from the frigid ecosystems of Yukon down through to the temperate zones of Western and West-Central United States, the Smallwing sedge also finds a habitat in the diverse climates of Mexico. This broad distribution indicates a remarkable level of ecological versatility.

Characterized by its slender, winged stems and dense clusters of tiny flowers, Carex microptera thrives in moist environments, often populating wetlands and stream banks where it plays a crucial role in soil stabilization and providing habitat for various wildlife species. Its foliage remains a critical component of the ecosystem, contributing to the green mosaic of plant life that supports biodiversity in these areas.

Whether standing as a testament to nature’s ingenuity in the northern reaches of Yukon or gracing the southern landscapes of Mexico, the Smallwing sedge is a plant of significance both ecologically and botanically.

Common Names

Eng: smallwing sedge, small-winged sedge, oval-headed sedge
Fra: carex à petites ailes, laîche agréable
En: Smallwing sedge, Small-Wing Sedge, OVALHEAD SEDGE, Swallowing sedge, Small-winged sedge, Oval-headed sedge
Fr: Carex à petites ailes, Laîche agréable
Fa: کارکس میکروپترا

Synonyms

• Carex microptera var. crassinervia (F.J.Herm.)
• Carex macloviana subsp. festivella ((Mack.) Á.Löve & D.Löve)
• Carex microptera var. limnophila ((F.J.Herm.) Dorn)
• Carex festivella (Mack.)
• Carex macloviana var. microptera ((Mack.) B.Boivin)
• Carex limnophila (F.J.Herm.)

Distribution

• Alberta (native)
• Arizona (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Sep 14, 2022 by Joseph Littlehorn (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken May 21, 2010 by EOL − Andrew Hipp (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 2, 2015 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 19, 2014 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 19, 2015 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2728956)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:46640-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Carex microptera Mack.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Bunch

Growth habit>: Graminoid

Growth rate>: Slow

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.4

Ph minimum: 5.6