Rhynchospora inundata (Oakes) Fernald

Distribution: Western and Southeastern U.S.

Habitat: Marshes, ditches, shallow ponds

Florida status: Native and abundant in marshy habitats

Recognition: Spikelets, achenes and tubercles > 10 mm long. Bristles 2X the achene length…R. inundata (common). Alternatively, bristles ½ the achene length…R. corniculata (rare)

Note: This species is often infested dramatically with the smut fungus Testicularia cyperi. The pustules are eggshell glossy white, black when broken open. For more information consult Mycologia 18 (4), 1926.