Tape-leaf flat-sedge

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Tape-leaf flat-sedge spike and spikelets

Tape-leaf flat-sedge

Tape-leaf flat-sedge spike and spikelets

Tape-leaf flat-sedge

Tape-leaf flat-sedge inflorescence

Morphology

Culm

Erect, slender, triangular, usually straw-colored.

Leaves

Blades few, basal, light green, equal to or slightly longer than culms, less than 1/10 inch wide.

Inflorescence

Spikes, dense, spherical, 1/4 to 3/4 inch in diameter, borne on 2-5 rays .5 to 1.5 inches long or sometimes sessile; bracts 2-4, unequal, leaf-like, to 3 inches long, less than 1/10 inch wide, much exceeding inflorescence.

Spikelet

Spikelets strongly flattened, ovate to oblong, to 1/4 inch long, closely overlapping, 10-40-flowered, radiating in all directions from common point; scales ovate, pale green, turning brownish with age, central nerve prominent; tips pointed, curving outward; stamen 1; style 3-cleft.

Fruit

Achenes, oblong, 3-angled, pointed at both ends, yellowish brown, 1-seeded.

Ecology

Habitat

Low wet areas and edges of ponds, lakes, and streams.

Distribution

East 4/5 of Kansas.