Cyperaceæ

Cyperaceæ, the order of reeds and sedges, are nearly akin to grasses, but easily distinguished by their solid, unjointed, generally triangular stems, undivided leaf-sheaths, and absence of paleæ. There are about 2000 species, widely distributed throughout all climates, but more especially in temperate and cold regions, and in marshy soils, of which they often take almost entire possession. Dry and rough in texture, they furnish only the very poorest constituent of fodder or hay, nor with few exceptions (see BULRUSH, CYPERUS, PAPYRUS, CAREX, REED) have they any other economic uses.