Three-cornered sedge
schoenoplectus triqueter
Also known as: ["Chinese water chestnut","Eleocharis dulcis"]
Overview
A perennial wetland plant with triangular stems and edible corms, native to Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Genus: | Schoenoplectus |
| Botanical Name: | Schoenoplectus triqueter |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: wetland edges, pond margins, or containers with constant moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; prefers moist but not waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal of unwanted stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Maintain consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging, and ensure good drainage.
Soil
moist, loamy soil with good organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Avoid drafts, maintain stable temperatures, and adjust care for seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply hormone (if used), place in medium, maintain moisture, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or desired length, ensuring clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain vigor and appearance; shape as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut at an angle, remove dead growth, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the base, ensuring even saturation of the root zone, allowing excess to drain away; water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and moisture retention; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, or cover with a frost cloth during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSchoenoplectus triqueter is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to feline health when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicSchoenoplectus triqueter is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicSchoenoplectus triqueter is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, consuming large quantities of the roots or stems may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the high fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Schoenoplectus triqueter edible?
A: Yes, the corms are edible and often used in Asian cuisine.
Q: Where does Schoenoplectus triqueter grow best?
A: It thrives in wetland areas, marshes, and along the edges of ponds and streams.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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