Scirpus L. sect. Isolepis (R.Br.) Griseb., Spicil. Fl. Rumel. 2: 417. 1845.

Terrestric or aquatic annuals or perennials, 5-40 cm. Rhizome short or creeping. Stem erect or creeping (or floating), usually terete. Leaves from reduced pseudolateral sessile spikes in globose head; bracts to several, leaf-like and exceeding inflorescence. Spikes with to c. 30 spirally arranged glumes. Flowers bisexual, perianth bristles 0; stamens 1-3; stigmas 2-3. Nut 0.5-2 mm, trigonous or lenticular.

Type: Isolepis setacea (L.) R.Br., sel. Börner, Abh. Naturw. Ver. Bremen 21: 260. 1913.

The genus Isolepis is one of the segregates of the genus Scirpus s.l. It may resemble some small Eleocharis or Trichophorum species. However, Isolepis mainly consists of small annuals, characterized by well-developed leaves, pseudolateral small and compact inflorescences and by the absence of perianth bristles. It contains c. 35 species, present on all continents, represented in Pakistan by only one species.

Lower Taxon

• Isolepis setacea (L.) R. Br.