Contents
Description
Carex Lepidocarpa, commonly known as small-fruited sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant species that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to North America and is typically found growing in damp habitats such as marshes, wet meadows, and streambanks. The plant has slender, erect stems that can reach up to 50 cm in height, with narrow leaves that are about 2-3 mm wide. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with male and female flowers on separate stems. The fruit is a small, brown achene that is about 1-2 mm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Carex |
Appearance
Carex Lepidocarpa is a small, slender plant with narrow leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. The stems are erect and can reach up to 50 cm in height. The leaves are typically about 2-3 mm wide and have a smooth texture. The plant produces small brown fruits that are about 1-2 mm long, which contain a single seed.
Care Guide
Carex Lepidocarpa requires moist soil and partial shade to thrive. It is best grown in areas with consistently damp soil, such as marshes or streambanks. The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilizer is typically not necessary for this plant, as it can obtain nutrients from the soil. The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH of 5.0-6.5. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carex Lepidocarpa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust and fungal diseases if grown in poorly drained soil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Habitat
Carex Lepidocarpa is native to North America and is typically found growing in damp habitats such as marshes, wet meadows, and streambanks. It is often found in association with other wetland plants, such as sedges, rushes, and cattails.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best soil pH for growing Carex Lepidocarpa?
A: Carex Lepidocarpa prefers acidic soil with a pH of 5.0-6.5.
Q: How tall can Carex Lepidocarpa grow?
A: Carex Lepidocarpa can reach up to 50 cm in height.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Carex Lepidocarpa?
A: Carex Lepidocarpa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust and fungal diseases if grown in poorly drained soil.
Q: Where is Carex Lepidocarpa native to?
A: Carex Lepidocarpa is native to North America.
Related Plants
- Carex aquatilis
- Carex lurida
- Carex stricta
- Carex vulpinoidea
References
- USDA Plants Database. Carex Lepidocarpa. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CALE14
- Pacific Northwest Wildflowers. Carex Lepidocarpa. https://www.pnwflowers.com/flower/carex-lepidocarpa
- Wildflower Center. Carex Lepidocarpa. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CALE14
