Much like nos. 26 [Carex radiata (Wahlenb.) Small] and 27 [Carex appalachica J. M. Webber & P. W. Ball], but more robust; fertile stems erect, 1.5-2.2 mm thick at base; widest lvs 1.8-2.6 mm wide; perigynia radiating in all directions, 2.6-4.2 mm, the base cuneate to rounded; achene set low in the perigynium, as in no. 27 [Carex appalachica J. M. Webber & P. W. Ball]; stigmas a little stouter, 0.07-0.1 mm wide, once or twice coiled; 2n=52. Mostly in habitats a little drier than those of no. 26, a littler moister than those of no. 27; N.S. and s. Que. to Minn. and e. Nebr., s. to Ga., Tenn., and Ark. (C. convoluta)