Rare Species Guide

  Synonyms

Carex laxiculmis

  Basis for Listing

Carex festucacea (fescue sedge) was ostensibly discovered in Minnesota in 1982 (Wheeler and Ownbey 1984). The discovery was documented by a specimen deposited in the University of Minnesota Herbarium. Although the specimen was immature, it was verified by two experts. The discovery was thought to be the first record of this species occurring in the state, indicating that it was quite rare and in need of conservation consideration. For this reason, it was listed as threatened in Minnesota in 1996. 

Since 1996, the identification of the specimen has been reevaluated by additional experts and determined to be Carex bicknellii (Bicknell’s sedge), a common prairie species in Minnesota.  As of this writing, there has been no verified occurrence of Carex festucacea in Minnesota.

  Authors/Revisions

Welby Smith (MN DNR), 2018

(Note: all content ©MNDNR)

  References and Additional Information

Smith, W. R. 2018. Sedges and rushes of Minnesota: the complete guide to species identification. University of Minnesota Press, Minneapolis. 696 pp.

Wheeler, G. A., and G. B. Ownbey. 1984. Annotated List of Minnesota Carices, with phytogeographical and ecological notes. Rhodora 86(846): 151-231.