Both species are among the most noxious of agricultural weeds in temperate to tropical regions worldwide. They often form dense colonies, can greatly reduce crop yields, and are difficult to control. In California, nutsedges are especially troublesome in annual and perennial crops that receive summer irrigation. Elsewhere yellow nutsedge is grown for its edible, earthy almond-flavored tubers. Purple nutsedge tubers taste bitter and are used medicinally in China and India.
Yellow nutsedge is a widespread, highly variable native of North America and Eurasia.
Leaves similar to those of mature plants but smaller. Stem base slightly triangular . Midvein region often pale. First 2-3 leaves emerge simultaneously and are folded lengthwise. Stems erect, simple, glabrous, triangular in cross-section .