Cyperaceae of East Africa

Abstract

Cyperus is without doubt the largest genus of sedges occurring in the tropics. Even in the narrower interpretations of the genus such as the one used here several hundred species of the tropical and subtropical regions are included, many of which are pantropical. In East Africa Cyperus species are found in damp places and in water, but some also flourish in the short rainy season of the near desert areas; few have been recorded above 8,000 ft. except in the forest undergrowth, though from the sea shore to about 7,000 ft. they are abundant in all suitable habitats.