Cyperus odoratus, commonly known as Fragrant Flatsedge, is an annual sedge native to a variety of wetland habitats including marshes, wet meadows, pond margins, and ditches across tropical and warm temperate regions worldwide, such as the Americas, Southeast Asia, Australia, and Africa. It typically grows to a height of 10-35 inches (25-90 cm) and has a clumping growth form. The plant features triangular stems topped with umbrella-like clusters of greenish-brown spikelets, which are most prominent in the summer and early fall. The flowers are not particularly showy, but the plant is named for its pleasant aroma when crushed.

Fragrant Flatsedge is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in water gardens, rain gardens, and as a naturalizing plant in wetland restoration projects. It prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are consistently moist. While it is not known for significant pest or disease issues, it can become invasive outside its native range, spreading aggressively by seeds and rhizomes. Gardeners should be cautious and check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0