Dunhead sedge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dunhead sedge |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Carex
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| Species: |
phaeocephala
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Carex phaeocephala is a type of plant known as a sedge. Its common name is dunhead sedge. Sedges are grass-like plants that often grow in wet or rocky places. This particular sedge is known for its unique appearance and where it likes to grow.
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Where Does Dunhead Sedge Grow?
The dunhead sedge is found across a large part of western North America. You can find it from Alaska in the north, all the way down to California and New Mexico in the south. It's a very adaptable plant!
What Kind of Places Does It Like?
This sedge grows in many different environments. It can be found in the lower areas, like foothills, and also high up in the mountains. It especially likes places with an alpine climate. An alpine climate means it's very cold, windy, and snowy, similar to what you'd find above the tree line on tall mountains. Dunhead sedge usually grows in rocky soils, which are common in these mountain areas.
What Does Dunhead Sedge Look Like?
Carex phaeocephala grows in thick bunches, forming dense clumps of stems. These stems can reach a height of about 45 centimeters, which is almost half a meter tall.
Leaves and Flowers
The plant has several narrow leaves that are shaped like channels. These leaves can grow up to about 20 centimeters long. The flowers of the dunhead sedge grow in groups called an inflorescence. This inflorescence can be either tightly packed or more spread out, and it contains several spikes of flowers.
The female flowers have special coverings called scales. These scales can be greenish or a brownish-orange color, and they often have thin, pale edges. The fruit of the plant is covered by a structure called a perigynium. This perigynium usually has a dark center and green edges, which helps protect the developing fruit.
