Scirpus cyperinus (L.) Kunth
characteristics
Densely-tufted, clump-forming grass-like plant with triangular stems. Medium green leaves are smooth and flat. A compound umbel, made up of numerous green-brown spikelets on branching rays, is at the top of each stem surrounded by spreading green, leaflike bracts. Spikelets become reddish brown and wooly when in fruit. The common name is confusing because it is not a grass but a member of the sedge family.
Also known as teddy-bear paws.
30,000,000 seeds/pound; starts from seed, sprigs, container, cuttings.
| T | SSN | H | W | sun | soil | H2O | fire | N2 | pH | summer | fall | flower (seed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P | Y | 1.6 | S | S/PS | F-M-C | W | •• | - | 4.8-7.2 | green | yellow | green (yellow) |
habitat
Marshes, swamps, sloughs, sedge meadows, and pond edges.
uses
An important species providing food, cover, and nesting habitat for a variety of wetland birds.
In the past North American aboriginals wove the stems into matting and rope.
The fruiting tops were used as a pillow stuffing.
Good for reconstructed wetlands:
Removes Nitrogen (N2) and phosphorus (P) from water.
Comments