CYPERACEAE

C. appressa (Tall Sedge), C. breviculmus, C. inversa (Knob Sedge), C. tereticaulis

Perennial grass or rush-like tussocky plants. Tussocks vary in height and width between species; C. appressa to 1 m high and 1 m wide.

Poorly-drained areas, along watercourses and swamp margins. Prefer 300 to 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina region.

Cut seedheads when dry and golden-brown. Dry in paper bags and rub to extract seed. Propagate by division of rhizomes or from seed using the bog method (keep seed tray in water).

Valuable in preventing creekbank erosion and slowing water movement due to fibrous roots. Excellent habitat and cover for frogs and insects. Food plants for butterfly caterpillars. Some species are ornamental for garden ponds.