Appearance

Cyperus esculentus is a perennial, with upright, triangular stems up to 2 ft. (0.61 m) tall and short, scaly rhizomes.

Foliage

Leaves are light green, very glossy and grass-like. They are three ranked and taper to a sharp point.

Flowers

The inflorescence is a terminal clustered spikelet. Flowers are yellowish to brownish in color.

Fruit

The fruits are achenes that seldom mature. Fruits are brown, sessile, and ellipsoid.

Ecological Threat

Cyperus esculentus is widespread and varies morphologically. Four varieties are recognized. It can be aggressive, with the tubers persisting even when the plant is pulled up by the roots. Cyperus esculentus can form dense stands especially in disturbed wetlands.

Selected Images

Maps

Invasive Listing Sources

• Alberta Weed Control Act
• California Noxious Weeds
• Colorado Noxious Weeds
• Hawaii Noxious Weeds
• Michigan Noxious Weeds
• National Park Service, Mid-Atlantic Exotic Plant Management Team Invasive Plant List
• Nonnative Invasive Species in Southern Forest and Grassland Ecosystems
• Oregon Noxious Weeds
• Washington Noxious Weeds
• WeedUS - Database of Plants Invading Natural Areas in the United States

References