Carex obnupta

Habit: semi-tuft forming sedge, growing from dense, creeping rhizomes. Evergreen leaves are grass-like and coarse reaching lengths of up to 12 in (30 cm). Three to 7 cylindrical flower spikes on hollow, upright, angled stems are purplish black with the upper most part being male flowers and the lower part being comprised of female flowers, some pendulant, held above leaves. Blooms April-July.

Ecology: found at lower elevations west of the Cascades, in moist to very wet locations such as bogs, wet meadows, riverbanks and shallow coastal swaps.

Growing Conditions: full sun to partial shade in moist soil to standing water. Tolerates brackish often saline coastal wetland areas, prefers fresh water.

Carex obnupta is fast growing, can be used to provides erosion control and streambank stabilization. In addition to providing food for many wildlife species, sedges are also valuable for cover. Used to make baskets.