Beaked Sedge

Carex rostrata

Beaked Sedge (Carex rostrata) is an herbaceous perennial plant and is a member of the Cyperaceae family. It is native to eastern North America, from Newfoundland and Labrador to Florida and Texas, as well as areas in Arizona and New Mexico. This species grows in moist to wet habitats such as shores of lakes, bogs, marshes, swamps, and ditches. It has green, flat, wide leaves and a rhizome root system. The flowerhead is a spike with reddish-brown scales. The fruits are dark brown and slightly three-sided, resembling the beak of a duck, hence the common name. Beaked Sedge is an important species for conservation and can be used for erosion control if planted in areas around lakes, rivers, and streams.