Compilation
Cyperus baobab

Very tussocky perennial with numerous closely set c. 2 cm long and 5 mm wide narrow ovate pseudobulbs formed by crowded succulent leaf-sheaths; stems to c. 10 cm long and 0.5–1.5 mm thick, distinctly triangular with prominently and irregularly scabrid angles or almost terete. Leaves from the basal 2–2.5 cm only; blades to c. 5 cm long and 0.5–1.5 mm wide, very thick, flat or canaliculate, with distinct uncoloured denticulate marginal borders; upper part of sheaths whitish, the lower parts often darker and succulent. Inflorescence of 4–10 crowded sessile spikelets forming a head 1.5–2.5 cm in diam.; involucral bracts usually to c. 1 cm long only, spreading or reflexed. Spikelets 7–12 x 3–4.5 mm, lanceolate, prominently compressed, 10–20-flowered. Glumes 3–3.5 mm long, ovate, acute, medium to dark reddish brown with c. 6 slender pale nerves on each side of the green or straw-coloured midrib that is excurrent in a very short (0.2 mm) straight or slightly recurved mucro. Stamens 3. Style 3-branched. Nutlet c. 0.7 x 0.5 mm, obovate, prominently triangular, dark reddish brown to almost black, minutely papillose.