T.E.R:R.A.I.N - Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network

Hook Grass (Uncinia uncinata)

Kingdom: Plantae
(Unranked): Angiosperms
(Unranked): Monocots
(Unranked): Commelinids 
Order: Poales
Family: Cyperaceae 
Tribe: Cariceae 
Genus: Uncinia 
Species: U Uncinia 
Scientific name: Uncinia uncinata 
Common names: Hook Sedge, Hook grass

Hook Sedge is characterised by the presence of a long hook formed by an extension of the rachilla, which is used to attach the fruit to passing animals (epizoochory) and it is this feature which gives the genus its name, from the Latin uncinus, meaning a hook or barb. This causes a problem to any humans with hairy bare legs when walking through
it.


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