Its relatives include Carex diluta of central Asia, which has also been introduced to North America in Montana.

Carex distans has been introduced to US states including Maryland and Pennsylvania.

Leaves: sheaths are brown to orange-brown; blades are green, flat and 3–4.5 millimetres (0.12–0.18 in) wide.

[3] In Europe, this sedge grows in wetlands and fens, often on sandy or rocky soils.

[4] In the United States, it is found on ballast dumps and in other disturbed, sandy locations.