Horned Beaksedge

(Rhynchospora corniculata)

Horned Beaksedge (Rhynchospora corniculata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Rhynchospora corniculata, commonly known as Horned Beaksedge, is a perennial herb native to freshwater marshes, wet meadows, and the edges of ponds and streams throughout the southeastern United States. It typically forms dense clumps and thrives in moist to wet, acidic soils. Horned Beaksedge reaches a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and has a distinctive appearance with narrow, grass-like leaves and small, white to greenish-white flowers that bloom in summer. The flowers are not particularly showy but are interesting upon close inspection, with horn-like bristles that give the plant its common name.

Horned Beaksedge is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and filter water in its native wetland habitats, making it a suitable choice for rain gardens, wetland restoration projects, and naturalized areas. It is also used in water gardens and as a ground cover in moist, sunny areas. This sedge prefers full sun to partial shade and requires consistently moist to wet conditions. It is not drought-tolerant and may require additional watering during dry periods. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases in crowded or poorly ventilated conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Freshwater marshes, wet meadows, and edges of ponds and streams

Other Names

Common Names: Short-Beaked Beaksedge, Horned Beakrush

Scientific Names: , Rhynchospora corniculata, Ceratoschoenus corniculatus, Ceratoschoenus longirostris, Rhynchospora corniculata var. corniculata, Rhynchospora corniculata var. interior, Rhynchospora corniculata var. typica, Rhynchospora laxa, Rhynchospora longirostris, Schoenus corniculatus

GBIF Accepted Name: