ARS | Publication request: Carex breviculmis R. BR. (Cyperaceae), new to the Flora of North America

Submitted to: Journal of Botanical Research Institute of Texas
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: August 10, 2008
Publication Date: December 9, 2008
Repository URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10113/27841
Citation: Majure, L.C., Bryson, C.T. 2008. Carex breviculmis R. BR. (Cyperaceae), new to the Flora of North America. Journal of Botanical Research Institute of Texas 2:1381-1387.

Interpretive Summary: Non-native weeds present a huge threat to agricultural and non-agricultural lands throughout the US. Early detection and rapid response are critical to prevent newly introduced weeds from becoming widespread and troublesome. The sedge family contains several of the most troublesome weeds worldwide, including purple nutsedge the world’s worst weed. A sedge species, Carex breviculmis, was discovered new to North America at Meridian, Mississippi. This plant is considered a weed in its native range of Asia, Australia, and the Indian Subcontinent. The current distribution and threat in the US are presented in this weed alert.

Technical Abstract: Carex breviculmis, a species native to Asia, Australia, and the Indian Subcontinent, was collected early in 2007 in Lauderdale County, Mississippi, U.S.A., at two areas around the city of Meridian. Further work in the area in the spring of 2008 revealed two more locations for this species. It was not known from North America prior to this discovery. Repeated trips to these sites revealed that this species appears to be established, maintaining viable populations from year to year and could become weedy. We provide a discussion of possible means and the implications of this introduction, as well as a detailed description and illustration of the species.