Earth-almond
Cyperus esculentus
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Earth-almond as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 42 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Earth-almond is a grass-like sedge that produces small, edible tubers underground. It forms clumps of narrow, upright leaves and develops small brown flower clusters in summer. This plant can spread aggressively through its underground tuber system.
In an HOA neighborhood
Earth-almond takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Aggressive spreader that can become weedy
- May be considered a noxious weed in some areas
- Difficult to control once established
Wildlife value
Provides seeds for birds and small mammals. The tubers are eaten by waterfowl and ground-dwelling wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Earth-almond need?
- Earth-almond grows best in full sun conditions.
- Where is Earth-almond native?
- Earth-almond (Cyperus esculentus) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 42 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Earth-almond toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Earth-almond as toxic to livestock.
- Is Earth-almond HOA-friendly?
- Earth-almond takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Earth-almond? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz