Fairly common in moist meadows and open forest settings, Small-wing Sedge is a widely ranging species, growing in suitable habitat from 2,500-6,500 feet. The leaves are flat, and the heads are crowded with bi-colored spikes, attributable to the difference in color between the scales and perigynia (the female sack that surrounds the seed).

Location: Longmire, Mount Rainier National Park

Date: June 14, 2014

The common name is derived from the winged perigynia, which have a slender beak.

Location: Stevens Canyon, Mount Rainier National Park

Date: June 4, 2014