This sedge with a wide Eurasian distribution is present in all regions of Italy. It grows in dry, steppe-like meadows and pastures, on subneutral to subacid, rather dry soils rich in nitrogen compounds, both on limestone and on siliceous substrata, from sea level to the upper montane belt (sometimes even at higher altitudes). In the temporary ponds of Sardinia the species is represented by subsp. insularis, that is endemic to Sardinia and Corsica. The genus name derives from the Greek 'keiro' (to cut), because of the sharp edges of the leaves of some species; the species name in Greek means 'with hard leaves'. Flowering period: March to May.

Italian name(s): Carice cariofillea (Italia), Carice primaticcia (Italia).