Cyperus articulatus Seeds | Jointed Flatsedge
LATIN NAME: Cyperus articulatus
COMMON NAME: Jointed Flatsedge
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Jointed Flatsedge, Cyperus articulatus is a tall, clumping perennial in the family Cyperaceae. Plant steadily develops a dense, tufted clump, often reaching 30-60 cm. Plant it in full sun with deep, fertile ground. Established plants reach around 30-60 cm. It is the sort of plant that quietly justifies the space it occupies.
Science & Biotechnology
Within Cyperaceae, Cyperus articulatus is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. In parts of South America, plant is cultivated commercially for perfume industry, and researchers have studied its cultivation and its oil yield. With present-day seed handling, raising this species well within the reach of any careful grower.
Uses & Benefits
Jointed Flatsedge brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. Ecologically, jointed flatsedge is a valuable plant of the wetlands. It grows in and beside water, helping to hold banks of rivers and streams, its dense clumps give shelter for small animals and insects, and it is part of natural life of ponds, lakes and swamps. Its economic value is real and growing. Establishment is uncomplicated, and afterwards ordinary care suffices.
Nutgrass rhizome, Xiang Fu, is Chinese medicine’s foremost qi-regulating herb for women’s comfort and digestion, and its relative is the edible tigernut of horchata; cyperus essential oil is studied for calming and antimicrobial activity.
Growing from Seed
Starting Jointed Flatsedge from seed is simple and satisfying. Growing jointed flatsedge from seed is easy and rewarding. Small seeds sit inside brown flower heads, and they do well in warm, moist conditions, so sow them in pots of moist, loamy compost in spring, cover them lightly, and keep them warm, bright and evenly moist. Sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly into a loose, well-drained seed compost, water in gently, and keep the sowing in full sun with steady moisture. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Jointed Flatsedge repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
Related Reading
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