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Pendulous Sedge

©Richard Burkmarr

Pendulous sedge

Scientific name: Carex pendula
As its name suggests, pendulous sedge has drooping form with long, nodding flower spikes that give it an attractive and soft look. It can be found in wet woodlands and along riversides.

Species information

Statistics

Height: up to 1.5m

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

January to December

About

Pendulous sedge is a clump-forming plant of wet woodlands and riversides that spreads with short rhizomes (underground stems). It has a scattered distribution, but particularly prefers ancient woods on clay and heavy soils; it is also a popular plant with gardeners. Living up to its common name, the long, nodding flower spikes are attractive and appear from May to July.

How to identify

Pendulous sedge has long, yellowish-green leaves and arching stems that carry the yellow, catkin-like flower spikes, which can be up to 2.5cm long.

Distribution

Locally common in England and Wales.

Habitats

Did you know?

Because of its drooping appearance, pendulous sedge is also known as 'weeping sedge' or 'hanging sedge'.