Data provided by the participants of the Consortium of California Herbaria

View additional distribution information on the Jepson eflora

Carex filifolia is a species of sedge known by the common name threadleaf sedge. It is native to much of western North America, from Alaska to California and Manitoba to New Mexico, where it grows in moist and dry habitat. This sedge produces clumps of stems which are rounded or triangular, wiry, and angled or curved, reaching up to about 35 centimeters long. The root network is extensive and it forms sod. The leaves are narrow and rolled tightly, appearing quill-like. The flower cluster is up to 3 centimeters long and has flowers coated with reddish scales. The fruit is covered in a sac called a perigynium which is somewhat hairy. The plant produces some seeds, but mainly reproduces vegetatively.

Plant type

Grass

Size

1 ft Tall

Form

Upright

Growth rate

Slow

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Color

Green, Red

Flowering season

Spring

Special uses

Containers

Sun

Partial Shade

Soil description

Prefers sandy or loamy soils. Does not grow well in clay soils.

Site type

Meadows, and moist places

Plant communities

Subalpine Forest

Caterpillars
Butterflies

Butterflies and moths supported

0 confirmed and 7 likely

Confirmed Likely

Common Ringlet

Coenonympha tullia

Olive Green Cutworm Moth

Dargida procinctus

Dun Skipper

Euphyes vestris

American Crescent Borer

Helotropha reniformis