Cyperus simplex Humb., Bonpl. & Kunth

  • Authority

    Mori, S. A., et al. 1997. Guide to the vascular plants of central French Guiana: Part 1. Pteridophytes, gymnosperms, and monocotyledons. Mem. New York Bot. Gard. 76: 1-422.

  • Family

    Cyperaceae

  • Scientific Name

    Cyperus simplex Kunth

  • Description

    Species Description - Caespitose annuals; culms 6—20 cm tall, erect. Leaves 8- 30 X 0.25-0.65 cm; sheath usually tinged reddish basally; blade flat, veins and longitudinal rows of pale silica bodies conspicuous abaxially. Inflorescences umbellate, of 4-9 rays; involucral bracts 3-9, leaf-like, the longest 18-32 X 0.35-0.6 cm, arching; rays spreading, to 24 cm long (longest ray of inflorescence >culm), terminating in a spike or occasionally in a secondary inflorescence; spikes 10—20 X 3-25 mm, spreading, of 1-4 spikelets; spikelets narrowly elliptic to linear, 5-20 X 1.2-3.2 mm, the scales narrowly ovate, acuminate, 2.3-2.6 X 1.2-1.6 mm. Stamen 1. Achenes trigonous, obovate to slightly obcordate in outline, 0.7-1.2 X 0.7-1 mm, white to golden brown or infrequently dark brown, the angles rounded to acute, the surface granular to smooth.

    Distribution and Ecology - Fr (Aug, Sep, Nov); forest and forest clearings, often along trails and streams.