SafePlants

Purple Nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus)

Purple nutsedge, scientifically known as Cyperus rotundus, is a perennial weed belonging to the sedge family (Cyperaceae). It's also commonly known as coco-grass, Java grass, nut grass, purple nutsedge, red nut sedge, Khmer kravanh chruk, coco sedge, coquito, and souchet rond.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant reproduces by rhizomes and tubers, which can be present underground.

Considerations for Children

• The plant reproduces by rhizomes and tubers, which can be present underground.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cyperus rotundus L.
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• Common Names: coco-grass, Java grass, nut grass, purple nutsedge, red nut sedge, Khmer kravanh chruk, coco sedge, coquito, souchet rond

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Africa and India.
• Widely distributed in temperate and tropical regions of the world.
• Reported in more than 90 countries.

Ecological Role

• Considered one of the world's worst weeds, impacting agriculture.
• Known for its rapid spread and difficulty to control.
• Can quickly take over a field if left uncontrolled.

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial weed that superficially resembles grass.
• Grows to a height of approximately 1 1/3 to 2 1/2 feet.
• Stems are 3-sided and triangular in cross-section.
• Root systems are fibrous and produce rhizomes and tubers.
• Flowers are extremely small.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• While 57 insect species are known to feed on purple nutsedge, approximately half have also been reported to feed on crop plants.

Quirky Facts

• Purple nutsedge has edible roots with a strong menthol flavor when freshly dug. The flavor lessens on drying.
• It has been named the "most costly weed in the world".

Uses

• Ethnobotanical: Used in traditional medicine.
• Edible roots that can be eaten raw or dried.

Further Information

• CTAHR publications: http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/freepubs