Species PlantsNorthwest Territory Sedge

Northwest Territory Sedge

Carex utriculata

CommonPlant
Illustration of Northwest Territory Sedge (Carex utriculata)

Northwest Territory Sedge is one of the most common and ecologically important sedges of western wetlands, forming extensive stands in marshes, fens, and along lakes and streams. Growing 2–4 feet tall with broad, keeled leaves, it produces cylindrical fruiting spikes with inflated, beak-tipped perigynia. It is among the most important sedges for wetland restoration in the Mountain West and Pacific Northwest. The dense stands provide critical nesting and brood-rearing habitat for many wetland birds.

Habitat
Found in marshes, fens, lake margins, and wet meadows across western and northern North America.
Diet
Seeds eaten by ducks and geese; dense stands provide nesting cover for coots, grebes, and marsh wrens.
How common
Common

Best time to see a Northwest Territory Sedge

The best time to see a Northwest Territory Sedge is June–July, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,502 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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