This species has been referred to as Cyperus laxus Lam.(a neotropical species) by some authors. However, most modern treatments accept that the two taxa are distinct - a treatment we follow here. Any uses for Cyperus laxus, where the range is given as Asia, should be referred to this species[, ].

Common Name: Dwarf Umbrella Grass

General Information

Cyperus diffusus is a herbaceous, perennial, grass-like plant producing a tuft of culms around 15 - 80cm tall from a short, hardened rhizome[, ].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine. It is sometimes grown as an ornamental in gardens and as an indoor house plant[].
Cyperus diffusus is widespread and has no major threats. The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine.The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

,

Range

E. Asia - southern China, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Guinea, NE Austral

Habitat

Thickets and moist forests on river banks, shady roadsides; at elevations up to 700 metres[]. Forests in valleys, grasslands on mountain slopes, wet places by rivers, along trails, paddy fields; at elevations from 100 - 1,700 metres in China[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Medicinal Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	0.50 m
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

The plant prefers a position in full sun, but can tolerate some shade[]. The plant is often found growing in deep shade in the wild[]. Grows best in a moist to boggy soil, often found in the wild with its roots submerged in water[].

Edible Uses

We have no specific information for this species, but it is said that the inner base of the young stems of all species in this genus can be eaten raw, and make an excellent survival food in times of need[].

Medicinal

The roots are used as an antipyretic, antitussive, analgesic, cardiotonic, diuretic[].
The roots are used to treat diseased lips[, ].

The leaves are said to have antiseptic properties[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed -

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