3 Records

Maryland has two species of Fuirena. Neither is especially common but they may be locally abundant. Hairy umbrella-sedge (Fuirena squarrosa) is more frequently encountered. Dwarf umbrella-sedge (Fuirena pumila) is rare in Maryland (S2S3).

Of the two Maryland species, one is annual and the other perennial. Even so, mature achenes are generally needed to confidently identify umbrella-sedges. Close-up photos of the inflorescence with a ruler will aid identification. Hairy umbrella-sedge (Fuirena squarrosa, a perennial) has perianth bristles that are shorter than the achene body (1/2 to 3/4 the length of the achene) and perianth scales that are acuminate but not awn-tipped. Dwarf umbrella-sedge (Fuirena pumila, an annual) has bristles that are longer than the achene body and perianth scales with an awn.

Fuirena species are found on the Coastal Plain in relatively open, seasonally damp areas (e.g., depressions, Delmarva Bays, and ditches).