Stace (2010) pg 961/ Rose (1989) pg 174/BSBI distribution map: http://www.bsbimaps.org.uk/atlas/map_page.php?spid=344.0

This species, Sand Sedge, Carex arenaria is found growing on sand dunes from where they begin at “The Hood” dunes along the Point.

This species can be identified as a true sedge -Carex family- as the stems are solid (unjointed) and 3 sided (triangular) in cross section, at least the lower part of the stem (Rose 1989).

This species is very extensively rhizomatous. Basal leaf sheaths persistant, becoming brown (Rose 1989):

Within the basal leaves are single stems growing up to 90 cm tall though often much less (Stace 2010). Inflorescences are dense, oblong to triangular in appearance (Rose 1989):

Utricles are the envelope that encloses the nut within the female flowers (Rose 1989). In the case of Carex arenaria, these are 4-5.5.mm, winged with a beak 1-2mm (Stace 2010):