Cyperus solidus

Cyperus solidus, commonly known as the forest edge sedge and previously scientifically as Mariscus solidus, is a densely tufted, robust perennial reaching 1,5 m in height. The evergreen plant grows from thick rhizomes that become woody.

Many linear, channelled leaves are produced in the basal tuft, the long, curving leaves about 15 mm wide. The glossy green to bluish green blades are rough-surfaced, ending in acutely pointed tips.

The species distribution is in the east of South Africa, from the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal to Mpumalanga and Limpopo, as well as some neighbouring countries. The photo was taken in the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg.

The habitat is damp forest margins, watercourses and grassland fringes near the coast and inland. The habitat population is deemed of least concern early in the twenty first century.

The plant features in semi-shade, moist places and in garden spots like herbaceous borders, coping with mild frost. It is browsed by forest antelopes (Pooley, et al, 2025; Leistner, (Ed.), 2000; Pooley, 1998; iNaturalist; http://redlist.sanbi.org).