Flatsedge, Schweinitz's flatsedge
Cyperus schweinitzii
Family: Cyperaceae
What it is like
Cyperus schweinitzii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). The seeds ripen from May to July. 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. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.
Height (m): 0.8
Where it is found
Sands, beaches and barrens. Sandy soils, especially along the sides of lakes and streams.
N. America - Quebec to Saskatchewan and south to Texas and New Mexico.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Tuber - raw or cooked.
Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
The leaves are used in basketry and for weaving hats, matting 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, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. 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.
Best place to grow: Bog Garden; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist, wet