Cyperus prolixus | |
---|---|
Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Clade: | Tracheophytes |
Clade: | Angiosperms |
Clade: | Monocots |
Clade: | Commelinids |
Order: | Poales |
Family: | Cyperaceae |
Genus: | Cyperus |
Species: | C. prolixus
|
Binomial name | |
Cyperus prolixus |
Cyperus prolixus is a species of sedge that is native to southern parts of North America, Central America and tropical parts of South America. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 2 meters tall. The leaves are long and narrow, and the flowers are small and white. Cyperus prolixus is found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and roadsides. It is a common plant and is not considered to be threatened or endangered.[1]
The species was first formally described by the botanist Carl Sigismund Kunth in 1816.[1]
Cyperus prolixus is a perennial plant with a stout, erect rhizome. The culms are erect, trigonous, and 50-300 cm tall. The leaves are basal, V-shaped, and 40-130 cm long. The inflorescence is a compound umbel with 9-12 rays, each ray up to 22 cm long. The spikelets are linear, 7-12 mm long, and contain 6-20 flowers.[2]
Cyperus prot is a pioneer species that often colonizes disturbed areas. The plant is pollinated by insects and the seeds are dispersed by wind. Cyperus prolixus is a food source for a variety of animals, including waterfowl, rodents, and insects.[2]