Bunchy Sedge
Common name
Bunchy Sedge
Scientific Name
Cyperus polystachyos
Type of plant
Grasses (Family Poaceae)
About this weed
This short, perennial grass-like sedge is originally from eastern Australia. It’s history of how it came to Western Australia is not recorded.
Description
It is a rhizomatous, perennial or annual, grass-like herb (sedge) and grows to about 0.6 m high. The flowers are green-brown and flowering is between December and July. Reproduction is by seed and it is dispersed by water and soil.
Impact on Bushland
Bunchy Sedge can form extensive rhizomatous patches in over-watered lawns and garden beds as well as in disturbed wetlands.
Location
It can be found in damper areas on the Swan Coastal Plain and as far north as Kununurra and prefers white or wet black sand.
Priority for removal
Unknown:
Management (hand)
Manual weeding throughout the year is recommended.
Management (herbicide)
For extensive patches, herbicides could be considered but check Florabase for the latest method of management before considering this alternative. Try 1% Glyphosate + Pulse®. Read the manufacturers’ labels and material safety data sheets before using herbicides. Optimal months to spray are November and December but spraying can also be done occasionally between January and July.
Information source
https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/806
Additional information
https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/weeds/swanweeds/
ussey, B.M.J., Keighery, G.J., Dodd, J., Lloyd, S.G. and Cousens, R.D. (2007) Western weeds. A guide to the weeds of Western Australia, Second Edition, The Weeds Society of Western Australia, Victoria Park, Western Australia.
