Chemical characterization of the stem of Cyperus tegetum — A semi-aquatic plant of economic importance

Cyperus tegetum Roxb. is a perennial herb growing naturally in marshy land in the humid tropics including India. The stem of the plant is used for making mats for floor covering as well as decoration, and this is a remunerative occupation for people in the rural areas in India. Analyses of the stem of C. tegetum grown under different fertilizer doses for increasing yield showed no significant variations in compositions. The stem was lignocellulosic and similar in contents of major constituents to straws, bagasse, grasses, etc. The stem being acidic could have a strong affinity to basic dyes for attractive colour finishing of mats, though the high crude fat content might inhibit good colouration. The strength properties of upper, middle and lower portions of stem measured by breaking load indicated higher strength in the middle portion than other parts of the stem.