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Reflexed Flatsedge: An Overview

This page provides information about the Reflexed Flatsedge, a plant with the scientific name Cyperus refractus.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Cyperus refractus Engelm. ex Boeckeler
• Common Name: Reflexed Flatsedge
• Other Common Names: Houghton's Flatsedge (in relation to Cyperus houghtonii)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Division: Tracheophyta
• Class: Magnoliopsida (also referenced as Liliopsida)
• Order: Poales (also referenced as Cyperales)
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• Genus: Cyperus
• Species: Cyperus refractus
• Nomenclatural Reference: Linnaea 36: 369 (Marisci sp.). 1870.
• Taxonomic Status: Accepted
• Related ITIS Name: Cyperus refractus Engelm. ex Boeckl.
• Synonym: Cyperus refractus Engelm. ex Steud (Flora of Virginia Name/Status)

Distribution and Habitat

• The Reflexed Flatsedge is found in dry upland forests.
• It can also be found in open fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas.
• Specifically mentioned locations include Louisiana (LA) and Arkansas (AR).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• The plant is a graminoid, meaning it resembles grass in appearance.
• It is a perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years.
• Houghton's Flatsedge has ascending spikelets compared to the reflexed spikelets of Cyperus refractus.
• It has elongate branches, subtended by spreading to reflexed bracts.

Ecological Role

• The plant is described as being present in disturbed areas, suggesting it can colonize such habitats.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Serves as a habitat.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS database
• Encyclopedia of Life
• Dave's Garden
• PLANT database