Purple nutsedge is similar to yellow nutsedge but with darker green leaves and purplish seed heads. It forms chains of tubers and is harder to control.
- Scientific name
- Cyperus rotundus
- Type
- Perennial sedge
- Most visible
- May–September
How to Identify Purple Nutsedge
- Triangular stems
- Dark green leaves with pointed tips
- Reddish-purple seed heads
- Tubers connected in chains underground
When It Shows Up in Oklahoma Lawns
Thrives in warm weather and can tolerate drier soil than yellow nutsedge.
How to Control Purple Nutsedge
- Use a sedge-specific herbicide; repeat applications are common
- Avoid tilling infested beds, which spreads tubers
- Keep turf thick with proper mowing height, watering, and feeding so seedlings can't establish