Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How can wetland sedges help remove excess nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Cyperaceae
Spikes of sedge (Carex pendula).
Certain large, fast-growing wetland sedges, particularly species of Schoenoplectus (such as Schoenoplectus lacustris) and various Carex species, are utilized in the treatment of domestic wastewater. These plants are effective in this role because of their capacity to absorb excess nutrients, specifically nitrogen and phosphorus, from the water in pond and tank treatment systems.1