Purple Nutsedge

Cyperus rotundus

Plant Description

Purple nutsedge is considered one of the world’s worst weeds and has become problematic in parts of California, but is not yet known in Oregon. This invasive sedge spreads aggressively through underground tubers (nutlets), making it extremely difficult to eradicate once established. It thrives in disturbed soils, agricultural fields, gardens, and landscaped areas, where it competes heavily with crops and native plants for water, nutrients, and light. Infestations can quickly reduce crop yields and disrupt restoration efforts, as even small fragments of tubers can regenerate into new plants. Because of its resilience and persistence, purple nutsedge poses a serious threat for Oregon landowners and land managers. If you believe you have found purple nutsedge, please report it to the Oregon Invasives Hotline.

Plant Details

Life Forms
Habitats
ODA Listing
Soil and Moisture Conditions
Suggested Actions
Shade Preference
Mature Height 2'
Distribution Found in the souteast US and Arizone and California. Not known to exist in Oregon.
Control If you find this plant, report it to https://oregoninvasiveshotline.org.
Disposal Methods Purple nutsedge is easily spread by movement of rhizomes. For help in managing and disposing of this species, please report it!
Reproduction and Spread Spreads by tubers formed on creeping underground rhizomes. A single tuber could produce 99 tubers in 90 days.
Introduced Accidentally introduced to the US in the 1800s.
Look Alikes Yellow nutsedge is a closely related species with brighter green foliage and yellow inflorescences.
Impact A world top-10 agricultural weed. Infests river bottom areas that are critical for food production in developing countries. Forms turions that resist treatment and tillage.
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