Cyperus tegetiformis
Family: Cyperaceae
What it is like
Cyperus tegetiformis is a PERENNIAL. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
Margins of swamps and in salt marshes.
E. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 2
A fibre is obtained from the stalks or the leaves, it is used for mats etc. The whole leaves can also be used for weaving mats and other items.
Fibre: Used for making cloth, rope, paper etc.
Weaving: Items such as grass and palm leaves that are woven together for making mats, baskets etc. See also Basket making and Fibre.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. It is cultivated, especially in China, for the fibre in its leaves. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a moist sandy loam in a sunny position.
Propagating it: Seed - surface sow in the spring and keep the compost moist. The seed usually germinates in 2 - 6 weeks at 18°c. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle. Grow on for their first winter in a greenhouse and plant them out in late spring after the last expected frosts. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring. If dividing in the autumn, it is probably better to overwinter the divisions in pots in a greenhouse.
Best place to grow: Bog Garden;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist, wet