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Description
Carex Echinodes, commonly known as the oval spikerush, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, marshes, and swamps. The plant has narrow, grass-like leaves that grow up to 2 feet long and a stem that can reach up to 3 feet tall. It produces clusters of small, brown flowers that bloom from May to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Carex |
Appearance
The oval spikerush has narrow, grass-like leaves that are light green in color and grow up to 2 feet long. The stem is triangular and can reach up to 3 feet tall. The plant produces clusters of small, brown flowers that bloom from May to September. The flowers are followed by small, oval-shaped fruits that are brown in color.
Care Guide
Water: The oval spikerush requires consistent moisture, so it should be watered regularly. It can tolerate standing water for short periods of time, but it should not be submerged for extended periods.
Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.
Soil: The oval spikerush prefers moist, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate full shade.
Hardiness Zones: The oval spikerush can grow in hardiness zones 3 through 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The oval spikerush is generally not prone to pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
The oval spikerush is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, marshes, and swamps. It prefers moist, acidic soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the oval spikerush tolerate standing water?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate standing water for short periods of time, but it should not be submerged for extended periods.
Q: Does the oval spikerush require regular fertilization?
A: No, the plant does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.
Q: What type of soil does the oval spikerush prefer?
A: The plant prefers moist, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the oval spikerush?
A: The oval spikerush can grow in hardiness zones 3 through 9.
Related Plants
- Carex aquatilis
- Carex crinita
- Carex lupulina
- Carex muskingumensis
References
- “Carex Echinodes.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277951&isprofile=0&basic=oval%20spikerush.
- “Carex Echinodes.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CAEC2.
- “Oval Spikerush.” Minnesota Wildflowers, www.minnesotawildflowers.info/grass-sedge-rush/oval-spikerush.
