Cyperus rotundus ( Purple Nutsedge )

Characteristics

Cultivar:	n/a
Family:	Cyperaceae
Size:	Height: 0 ft. to 2.5 ft. Width: 0 ft. to 2.5 ft.
Plant Category:	ornamental grasses and bamboos, perennials,
Plant Characteristics:	low maintenance, spreading,
Foliage Characteristics:
Foliage Color:
Flower Characteristics:
Flower Color:
Tolerances:

Requirements

Bloomtime Range:	not applicable
USDA Hardiness Zone:	8 to 11
AHS Heat Zone:	Not defined for this plant
Light Range:	Part Shade to Sun
pH Range:	Not defined for this plant
Soil Range:	Some Sand to Loam
Water Range:	Dry to Moist

Plant Care

Fertilizing

Light

Conditions : Light Conditions

Unless a site is completely exposed, light conditions will change during the day and even during the year. The northern and eastern sides of a house receive the least amount of light, with the northern exposure being the shadiest. The western and southern sides of a house receive the most light and are considered the hottest exposures due to intense afternoon sun.

You will notice that sun and shade patterns change during the day. The western side of a house may even be shady due to shadows cast by large trees or a structure from an adjacent property. If you have just bought a new home or just beginning to garden in your older home, take time to map sun and shade throughout the day. You will get a more accurate feel for your site's true light conditions.

Watering

Conditions : Dry

Dry is defined as an area that regularly receives water, but is fast draining. This results in a soil that is often dry to a depth of 18 inches.

Conditions : Moist

Moist is defined as soil that receives regular watering to a depth of 18 inch deep, does not dry out, but does not have a drainage problem either.

Planting

Problems

Weeds : Preventing Weeds and Grass

Weeds rob your plants of water, nutrients and light. They can harbor pests and diseases. Before planting, remove weeds either by hand or by spraying an herbicide according to label directions. Another alternative is to lay plastic over the area for a couple of months to kill grass and weeds.

You may apply a pre-emergent herbicide prior to planting, but be sure that it is labeled for the plants you are wishing to grow. Existing beds may be spot sprayed with a nonselective herbicide, but be careful to shield those plants you do not want to kill. Non-selective means that it will kill everything it comes in contact with.

Mulch plants with a 3 inch layer of pinestraw, pulverized bark, or compost. Mulch conserves moisture, keeps weeds down, and makes it easier to pull when necessary.

Porous landscape or open weave fabric works too, allowing air and water to be exchanged.

Miscellaneous

Plant Images