Galingale

Cyperus longus

Physical Characteristics

Cyperus longus is an evergreen Perennial growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 2 m (6ft 7in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

Britain and the Mediterranean region north to Lake Geneva.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Condiment Tuber - used as a spice in soups, pies and sweets[5, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Aromatic Tonic The root is an aromatic tonic[4]. It was at one time considered to be a good stomachic and useful in the first stages of dropsy, but it has now fallen into disuse[4, 238].

Known Hazards

None known