Cyperus esculentus

Cyperus esculentus, also known as tiger nut, yellow nutsedge or earth almond, is a species of sedge native to warm temperate to subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is considered a weed in some regions, but also has a long history of use for its edible tubers.

Description

Cyperus esculentus is a perennial plant that grows up to 90 cm tall. The leaves are linear, 3-10 mm wide, and the flowers are produced on spikes at the top of the stems. The tubers are small, round, and brown, resembling a small nut. They have a sweet, nutty flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked.

Distribution and habitat

Cyperus esculentus is native to the Old World, but has been introduced and naturalized in many other parts of the world, including North and South America, Australia, and New Zealand. It grows in a variety of habitats, but prefers moist, sandy soils.

Uses

The tubers of Cyperus esculentus have been used as a food source for thousands of years. They were a staple food in ancient Egypt and are still consumed in many parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Southern Europe. The tubers can be eaten raw, roasted, or ground into a flour. They are also used to make a sweet, milky drink called horchata in Spain.

In addition to their culinary uses, the tubers are also used in traditional medicine. They are believed to have diuretic, stimulant, and aphrodisiac properties.

Cultivation

Cyperus esculentus is easy to grow and can be cultivated in a variety of soil types. It prefers full sun and regular watering. The tubers can be harvested in the autumn, after the tops of the plants have died back.

See also

• Cyperus rotundus
• Cyperaceae
• Sedge