shortleaf spikesedge

Family

Cyperaceae

Scientific Name

Kyllinga brevifolia

Synonyms (former Scientific Names):

Cyperus brevifolius

Habit

This perennial sedge can be found growing from April through October. Flowering occurs from May onward. It is dormant in winter; however, in warm climates it remains green. When not mowed, it grows erect. In areas that are mowed, it will grow in a prostrate manner up to 15 inches. It can be spread by rhizomes.

Leaves

The leaves are hairless, long, narrow and are shiny in appearance. The leaves taper gradually, and end in a sharp point. They also have a distinct ridge along the mid-vein. The leaves do not have auricles or ligules, but are still commonly misidentified as grasses.

Identifying Characteristics

It is distinguishable from yellow or purple nutsedge due to its patchy growth, seed, and its fine leaves. It is extremely resilient, surviving, and even flowering at mowing heights of only 3/4 of an inch. The stems are triangular and end in a seed head.

Flower Seed Head

The green, globular flowers grow on triangular stalks. Three short leaves (bracts) occur directly below the flower.

Seed Fruit

The flowers each contain 30-75 spikelets, each capable of producing a seed. Each of the 1/8 to 1/16 inch oval seeds are highly viable. The seed will not germinate if buried deep in the soil.