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coastal flatsedge

Scientific Name: Cyperus pennatiformis

Family: Cyperaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Coastal Flatsedge (Cyperus pennatiformis)

The Coastal Flatsedge, scientifically known as Cyperus pennatiformis, is a rare species of sedge endemic to Hawaii. It is also known by several other common names including taperleaf flatsedge, taper-tip flat sedge, and tapertip flatsedge.

Considerations for Pets

  • According to some sources, Coastal Flatsedge is considered unsafe for both dogs and cats.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cyperus pennatiformis Kk.
  • Family: Cyperaceae
  • Group: Monocot
  • Synonyms: Formerly known as Mariscus pennatiformis.
  • Varieties:
    • Cyperus pennatiformis var. bryanii Kk. (Bryan's flatsedge)
    • Cyperus pennatiformis var. pennatiformis
  • Related Species:
    • Cyperus parishii (Parish's Flatsedge)
    • Cyperus phaeolepis (Madagascar Flatsedge)
    • Cyperus cuspidatus Kunth (Coastal Plain Flatsedge)
    • Cyperus grayi (Gray's flatsedge)
    • Cyperus flavicomus (White-edge flatsedge)
    • Cyperus odoratus (Fragrant flatsedge)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Endemic to Hawaii.
  • Primarily found in undisturbed remnant patches of coastal prairie.
  • Other flatsedge species are found along the coasts of the USA, including the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
  • Saltmarsh flat-sedge can be found on rocky shores of Northern Ireland.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Graminoid plant type.
  • Perennial plant.
  • Robust root system.

Quirky Facts

  • While mostly known from Suffolk County, there were two collections of this rare flatsedge from Queens County in the 1890s.

Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Discover Life
  • Plants of Hawaii (Forest and Kim Starr)