Tapertip Flatsedge
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(Cyperus acuminatus)
Tapertip Flatsedge (Cyperus acuminatus)
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© Sue Ann Kendall
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
© Sue Ann Kendall
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Sue Ann Kendall | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: sunasak | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Summary
Cyperus acuminatus, commonly referred to as tapertip flatsedge or pale umbrella-sedge, is an annual herb native to a variety of wetland habitats including riverbanks, marshes, and wet meadows across North America. It thrives in moist to wet soils and is often found in ephemeral wet areas, from large rivers to roadside ditches. Cyperus acuminatus typically grows up to 16 inches tall and is characterized by its slender, paper-thin stems and distinctive spherical inflorescences. The inflorescences bear several spikelets, each containing flowers that produce oval-shaped achene fruits.
Tapertip flatsedge is valued for its role in soil stabilization and as a component of wetland plant communities, contributing to biodiversity. It is not commonly used in traditional garden settings but can be an interesting addition to rain gardens or naturalized wetland areas. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions. It is relatively low maintenance but may require management to prevent it from spreading too aggressively in favorable conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0
Tapertip flatsedge is valued for its role in soil stabilization and as a component of wetland plant communities, contributing to biodiversity. It is not commonly used in traditional garden settings but can be an interesting addition to rain gardens or naturalized wetland areas. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions. It is relatively low maintenance but may require management to prevent it from spreading too aggressively in favorable conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 1-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous, Semi-deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Drainage: Medium, Slow
Common Uses
Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden
Natural Habitat
Native to a variety of wetland habitats including riverbanks, marshes, and wet meadows
Other Names
Common Names: Taperleaf Flatsedge, Short-Pointed Cyperus, Taper-Leaved Flatsedge, Taper-Tip Umbrella Sedge
Scientific Names: Cyperus acuminatus, Cyperus acuminatus var. cyrtolepis, Cyperus cyrtolepis, Cyperus cyrtolepis var. caepitosus, Cyperus cyrtolepis var. denticarinatus, Cyperus cyrtolepis var. glaucescens, Cyperus rufescens var. denticarinatus
GBIF Accepted Name: Cyperus acuminatus