Tropical Flat Sedge

(Cyperus surinamensis)

Tropical Flat Sedge (Cyperus surinamensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cyperus surinamensis, commonly known as Tropical Flat Sedge or Surinam Sedge, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to wetlands, marshes, and along the margins of water bodies in the tropical and subtropical Americas. It thrives in moist to wet conditions and is often found in areas that are seasonally flooded. This sedge typically grows rapidly to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and forms dense clumps. Its leaves are grass-like, and it produces green, inconspicuous flowers on triangular stems that bloom in the summer and spring. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do produce a distinctive inflorescence that can add texture to a garden setting.

Tropical Flat Sedge is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and its use in water gardens or as a ground cover in wet areas. It is also used in constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment due to its high tolerance for waterlogged conditions. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade and thrives in medium to slow draining clay, loam, or sandy soils. It is a high water user, making it suitable for areas where other plants might struggle. While it is relatively low maintenance, it can become invasive outside its native range, so it is important to monitor its growth and spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow, Standing

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wetlands, marshes, and along the margins of water bodies in the tropical Americas

Other Names

Common Names: Surinam Sedge

Scientific Names: Cyperus surinamensis , Cyperus denticulatus , Cyperus surinamensis subsp. lutescens , Cyperus surinamensis subsp. strictus , Cyperus surinamensis subsp. viridis

GBIF Accepted Name: