Great Plains flatsedge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Great Plains flatsedge |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cyperus
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| Species: |
lupulinus
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The Great Plains flatsedge (scientific name: Cyperus lupulinus) is a type of plant found in North America. It's a common sight across parts of Canada and the central and northeastern United States. You can find it growing in sunny, open areas like fields, prairies, and along roadsides.
Where Does it Grow?
This plant is native to North America. It grows widely in southeastern Canada and the central and northeastern United States. You can find it as far west as Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico. There are also a few smaller groups of these plants in Washington (specifically in Asotin County), Idaho (Idaho County), and Oregon (Wallowa County).
The Great Plains flatsedge loves places where it can get lots of sunshine. It often grows in open fields, natural grasslands called prairies, and even next to roads or on farms.
Different Types of Great Plains Flatsedge
Scientists recognize two main types, or subspecies, of the Great Plains flatsedge:
- Cyperus lupulinus subsp. lupulinus: This type has flower scales that are usually bigger than 2.5 millimeters. Its spikelets (small flower clusters) typically have between 5 and 22 scales each.
- Cyperus lupulinus subsp. macilentus (Fernald) Marcks: This subspecies has smaller flower scales, usually less than 2.5 millimeters. Its spikelets are also smaller, with only 3 to 7 scales each.
What Does the Plant Look Like?
The Great Plains flatsedge is a perennial herb. This means it's a plant that lives for more than two years. It can grow up to 50 centimeters (about 20 inches) tall. It spreads out using underground stems called rhizomes. These rhizomes help new plants grow nearby.
The plant's stems are shaped like a triangle when you look at them from above. Its flowers grow in dense, round clusters, almost like a ball. The seeds, called achenes, are dark brown, almost black, and shaped like an egg. They are about 2 millimeters wide.
