Sedges have a superficial resemblance to grasses. However they are not closely related and differ in many characteristics, particularly in the structure of the inflorescence.
Sedges have considerable economic and ecological importance.
They are, however, well-known for being difficult plants to identify and specialist advice is often required. Kew has a long-standing tradition of expertise in sedges and, with the richness of its collections, is uniquely placed at the forefront of research on and identification of this family. Agriculture A number of sedges are serious and persistent weeds of agriculture, particularly in the tropics, where they are often associated with rice cultivation. One species, Cyperus rotundus , has the dubious reputation of being termed 'the world's worst weed'. In many parts of the tropics, particularly Africa, sedges also provide fodder for domestic animals.