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Ricefield flatsedge

How to identify Ricefield flatsedge (Cyperus iria)

Ricefield flatsedge, also known as Umbrella sedge

Ricefield flatsedge is characterized by its clustered, tufted growth habit, thriving as an annual or perennial. This sedge exhibits narrow, grass-like leaves and triangular stems, typically reaching up to 3 feet (about 90 cm) in height. The inflorescences consist of umbrella-like clusters of small, greenish flowers that bloom in summer and fall. The plant's fibrous root system is well-adapted to saturated soils found in its preferred habitats.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Annual, Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Grass

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Ricefield flatsedge

1

Triangular stems up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall distinguish ricefield flatsedge from other plants.

2

Umbrella-like clusters of greenish flowers in summer and fall are unique to ricefield flatsedge.

3

Golden-brown spikes holding open compound umbels make ricefield flatsedge easily identifiable.

4

Distinctive shiny brown achenes with a tri-angled shape aid in ricefield flatsedge identification.

5

V-shaped, scabrid leaves with reddish-brown bases are key features of ricefield flatsedge.

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Detailed Traits of Ricefield flatsedge

Leaf Features

The flat, lance-linear green leaves of ricefield flatsedge are V-shaped and measure roughly 4–8 inches (10–20 cm) in length. The leaf margins and mid-rib are scabrid, featuring small, sharp projections. The leaf sheaths are green, stained reddish-brown at the base, and they wrap around the stem but are shorter than it. This unique combination of features makes the leaves of ricefield flatsedge recognizable and distinctive.

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Flower Features

The flowers of ricefield flatsedge are produced in open, compound umbels, held on golden-brown spikes that are typically sessile and elongated. Each flower cluster is subtended by 4-7 leaf-like bracts. The spikes exhibit a striking golden to yellowish-green hue. These unique clusters serve as a distinguishing characteristic of ricefield flatsedge, presenting a notable contrast in color and texture. Their distinct appearance aids in the identification of ricefield flatsedge, making them a vital feature for plant enthusiasts.

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Stem Features

The stem of ricefield flatsedge is characterized by its roughly triangular shape, providing a distinctive appearance that aids in identification. The stems are solid and robust, measuring approximately 0.12 to 0.4 inches (3 to 10 mm) in thickness. Exhibiting a vibrant green color, they contribute to the plant's lush appearance. The culms of ricefield flatsedge are unbranched, smooth to the touch, and display a consistent texture along their length, which includes no significant knots or irregularities.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of ricefield flatsedge is a distinctive, shiny brown achene that stands out with its obovoid shape and tri-angled appearance. Each fruit measures approximately 0.1 inches (2-3 mm) in length, presenting a three-sided structure said to be crucial for identification. The surface of the achene is notably smooth, which gives it a lustrous finish. Despite its small size, the unique form and polished texture make the fruit of ricefield flatsedge a significant feature for those interested in plant identification.

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Ricefield flatsedge and Their Similar Plants

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Nut grass vs. Ricefield flatsedge: What's The Difference?
Nut grass can be found all over the world. This perennial plant gets its name because its tubers resemble nuts. Nut grass is considered one of the most invasive plants in the world, and among the most difficult to eradicate. It reduces crop yields and is resistant to most herbicides.
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Yellow nutsedge vs. Ricefield flatsedge: What's The Difference?
Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus) is a perennial plant that is found throughout much of the eastern hemisphere, where it is often cultivated for its edible tubers. The tubers, commonly called “tiger nuts,” can be crushed in water and then strained to create a milky beverage called “horchata.”
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Umbrella Sedge vs. Ricefield flatsedge: What's The Difference?
Umbrella Sedge (Cyperus alternifolius) is a perennial houseplant that grows best in full sun, bright indoor light, or light shade. Umbrella Sedge is named for its leaves that resemble the spokes of an umbrella growing atop a long upright stalk. It is an ideal pond or aquatic plant because it grows well in water.
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Papyrus sedge vs. Ricefield flatsedge: What's The Difference?
Papyrus sedge (Cyperus papyrus) is an aquatic flowering plant that’s originally from Africa. It was used by the ancient Egyptians to make papyrus, one of the earliest kinds of paper. For thousands of years, people have tied the stems together to build boats. Nowadays, it’s often used ornamentally. It’s close to extinction in the Nile Delta region—one of the places it calls home.
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Woodrush flatsedge vs. Ricefield flatsedge: What's The Difference?
Woodrush flatsedge is a perennial, moisture-loving sedge thriving in wetlands and along waterways. Its triangular stems and dense clusters of greenish-brown spikelets rise above grass-like leaves. Notably, its spreading rhizomes form extensive colonies, a testament to its robust adaptability in varied aquatic ecosystems.
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Miniature flatsedge vs. Ricefield flatsedge: What's The Difference?
Miniature flatsedge is a grass-like perennial with tall, slender green stems topped with umbrella-like clusters of small, brownish flower spikes. These characteristic spikes resemble tufted umbrellas that emerge above its dense, sedge-like foliage. Flourishing in moist habitats, miniature flatsedge often forms lush clumps that provide shelter and breeding grounds for various aquatic wildlife, contributing to the biodiversity of wetland ecosystems.
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Dwarf striped umbrella sedge vs. Ricefield flatsedge: What's The Difference?
Dwarf striped umbrella sedge is characterized by its striking grass-like foliage, adorned with elegant white stripes that run along the length of its green leaves. Thriving in moist, well-drained environments, dwarf striped umbrella sedge displays a love for wetter conditions, often found along streambanks or in garden water features. Its slender, upright form and variegated pattern make it a visually appealing addition to any water-centric landscape.
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Key Facts About Ricefield flatsedge

Attributes of Ricefield flatsedge
Lifespan
Annual, Perennial
Plant Type
Grass
Plant Height
60 cm
Spread
30 cm to 1.2 m
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
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Scientific Classification of Ricefield flatsedge

Family
Sedge
Icon allow
Species
Ricefield flatsedge (Cyperus iria)
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Distribution Map of Ricefield flatsedge

The plant ricefield flatsedge naturally occurs across Asia and Africa, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, and extends to temperate zones. It has been introduced successfully to parts of Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Oceania. In its introduced range, ricefield flatsedge thrives in similar climates to its native habitat, with a presence spanning major regions on multiple continents.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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