Cyperaceae

Cyperus rotundus

Common Names: Nutgrass

Plant Form: Erect perennial sedge. Size: Up to 50 cm tall. Stem: Smooth, unjointed and triangular. Leaves: Grass-like, glossy light green. V-shaped (in cross section) with finely serrated edges and a prominent mid-vein. Flowers: A cluster of reddish or purplish brown spikelets which are on 3-9 flower stems. Fruit and Seeds: Black brown, olive or grey. Oval-shaped with a beaked end. Habitat: Cropland, grassland, pastures, gardens. Distinguishing Features: Similar to Yellow nutgrass (Cyperus esculentus) but has purplish rather than yellowish flowers.