Largehead sedge

Carex macrocephala

Physical Characteristics

Carex macrocephala is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from June to August. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Asia - Japan. Western N. America - Alaska to Oregon.

Habitats

Bog Garden; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seed Edible Uses: Root - cooked[172]. Seed[172]. Very nutritious[178]. The seed is small and fiddly to use[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known