Lakeshore Sedge

(Carex lenticularis)

Lakeshore Sedge (Carex lenticularis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Carex lenticularis, commonly known as Lakeshore Sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to riparian zones, wet meadows, and the shores of lakes and streams in northern North America, including Canada and the western United States. It typically forms dense clumps reaching 12 to 30 inches in height. The slender, arching stems are greenish-yellow, and the narrow, grass-like leaves contribute to its fine-textured appearance. The inflorescence, which appears from late spring to midsummer, consists of erect spikes with a long bract that extends beyond the spikes, giving it a distinctive look. The fruit is a small, green perigynium that encloses the seed.

Lakeshore Sedge is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion in wetland habitats. It is often used in restoration projects and naturalized plantings where its fibrous root system can help to filter water and provide habitat for wildlife. In garden settings, it is used in rain gardens, along water features, and in areas with moist to wet soils. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers consistently moist to wet soil conditions. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases in some conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous, Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to riparian zones, wet meadows, and the shores of lakes and streams

Other Names

Common Names: Lenticular Sedge, Shore Sedge, Tufted Sedge, Few-Ribbed Sedge, Lens Sedge, Michaux’s Sedge, Lens-Fruited Sedge, Lenticular-Achene Sedge

Scientific Names: , Carex lenticularis, Carex lenticularis var. albimontana, Carex lenticularis var. blakei, Carex lenticularis var. eucycla, Carex lenticularis var. lenticularis, Carex lenticularis var. merens,

GBIF Accepted Name: