Maureen Gilmer
Family
Cyperaceae
Botanical Name
CYPERUS nanus
Plant Common Name
Dwarf Papyrus
General Description
Lacking leaves, Indian flatsedge grows as a cluster of short, slender stems topped with a irregular, grassy, tufted head of tan flowers. An upright, clump-forming evergreen perennial sedge, this species is native to the West Indies in the Caribbean Sea.
The thin stems are medium to dark green and flattened. With ample warmth, these leafless stems develop small, clustered bronze-tan spikelets at their tops, often branching and forming secondary spikelets. These flowers are pollinated and distributed by wind or water.
Grow Indian flatsedge in a relatively fertile soil that is either seasonally moist or consistently very moist, or barely underwater. Sand-based soils are optimal. Full to partial sun, even light shade are acceptable. In areas where foliage doesn't die back from winter chill or drought, this plant may be considered a weed that infiltrates pristine turfgrass. It potentially makes a cute, miniature specimen plant in a pond or at the water's edge in the ground. It may prosper in a moist pocket in a manicured lawn, amid a warm-climate turf such as St. Augustine grass.
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Poorly Drained
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Soil type
Loam, Sand
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Tolerances
Wet Site, Salt
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Growth Rate
Fast
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Water Requirements
Average Water, Ample Water
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Habit
Arching/Fountain-shaped
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
Bronze, Sandy Brown
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Fruit Color
Tan
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Green
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
Yes
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Bog Garden, Container, Groundcover, Lawns and Turf, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
Sometimes
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Self-Sowing
Yes
