398B-2-Carex-breviculmis-fl-Marilyn-Gray_1.jpg

Carex breviculmis

Short-stem Sedge

Densely tufted sedge spreading from short underground stems. Flowering stems erect, rounded to 3-angled in cross section, from 3-10cm high, shorter than leaves.

Additional information

  • FamilyCyperaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size10-35 cm x 20-40 cm
  • Plant groupingGrasses, Rushes & Sedges
  • LeavesDark green leaves to 35 cm x 2-3 mm wide. Sheath yellow-brown, sheath appendage blunt to square.
  • Flower colourPale brown with green midrib
  • Flowering timeAugust to December
  • FlowersFlowerhead narrow to 4 cm long; 2-5 stalkless spikes, 1 per node ; upper spike male; lower spikes female. Leafy bract longer than spikes. Fruit with long hairs, pale green to yellow-brown, style 3-branched. Nut pale yellow.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatYes
  • Growing conditionsDry to moist soils in grasslands, woodlands and open forests. Full sun, partial to semi shade.
  • Garden useExcellent small carex for borders, rockeries, cottage gardens.
  • Commercially availableAustralian plant & indigenous nurseries
  • Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
Photographer/s: Marilyn Bull ©

Plant Communities

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  • 37 Yarra Gum Grassy Woodland (EVC 175)
  • 25 Long-leaf Box Grassy Dry Forest - Southern Dandenongs (EVC 22)
  • 38 Yellow Box Valley Grassy Forest – Middle Yarra (EVC 47)
  • 42 Yellow Box Valley Grassy Forest - Christmas Hills (EVC 47)
  • 08 Mountain Grey Gum Damp Forest – Dandenongs (EVC 29)
  • 40 Snow Gum Grassy Woodland (EVC 175/37)
  • 13 Manna Gum Riparian Forest - Upper Yarra (EVC 18)
  • 01 Alpine Ash Montane Damp Forest (EVC 38)
  • 22 Silver-leaf Stringybark Heathy Woodland (EVC 48)
  • 44 Grassy Wetland Complex (EVC 125)
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