Nut Sedge - Cyperus rotundus

Common Name :	Nut Sedge.
Binomial Name :	Cyperus rotundus
Family :	Cyperaceae
Bangla Name :	Mutha
Photo Taken :	Bangladesh

Botanical Identity

Cyperus rotundus, commonly known as Nut Grass, Java Grass, or Purple Nutsedge, is a perennial sedge belonging to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to Africa, Southern and Central Europe, and South Asia, but is now widespread across tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Known as Motha, Nagarmotha, or Mustaka in India, it has been historically significant in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine systems for thousands of years.

Plant Description and Growth Habit

Cyperus rotundus is a low-growing, grass-like perennial herb that reaches up to 20–50 cm in height. It has narrow, shiny green leaves that emerge from the base, and its underground system consists of creeping rhizomes and tubers. The plant thrives in warm, moist climates and can grow in a wide range of soil types, including disturbed and cultivated lands, which is why it’s often considered a troublesome weed in agriculture. Its ability to regenerate from its tubers makes it difficult to eradicate once established.

Flowers and Fruit Characteristics

The plant bears slender, triangular stems topped with umbrella-like clusters of small, brown to purplish spikelets. These tiny flowers are wind-pollinated and not very showy. After flowering, the plant produces dry, single-seeded fruits known as achenes, though it mainly propagates through underground tubers. These tubers, which are the plant’s key feature, are small, rounded, and dark brown to black in color, spreading vigorously and forming dense mats underground.

Uses and Medicinal Significance

Despite its weedy nature, Cyperus rotundus is highly valued in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, Unani, and Chinese herbal practices. The tubers are used to treat digestive disorders, fevers, menstrual issues, inflammation, and skin problems. They possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used in perfumes and incense due to its earthy fragrance. Though often viewed as invasive in crop fields, its medicinal potential makes Cyperus rotundus an important plant in holistic healing traditions.


Photos of this article were taken from the Nijhum Dip, an island from Bangladesh. It was duringt the end of November from the year 2013.


Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com