Lepidosperma viscidum, commonly known as sticky saw sedge, is a species of sedge native to Australia. This perennial plant is characterized by its dense, tussock-forming growth habit, typically reaching a height of 0.5 to 1.5 meters. The leaves are linear, erect to arching, and can be up to 1 meter long and 5-10 mm wide, with margins that are finely serrated, contributing to the "saw" aspect of its common name. A distinctive feature of Lepidosperma viscidum is the presence of a viscid or sticky substance on the culms and inflorescences, particularly when young, which gives rise to its specific epithet "viscidum." The culms are erect and triangular in cross-section.
The inflorescence is a panicle, often contracted, bearing numerous spikelets. Each spikelet contains several flowers, which are typically inconspicuous, as is common in sedges. The fruit is an achene, which is ovoid to broadly ovoid and typically brown. The seeds are dispersed by various means, including wind and water, and the plant reproduces both by seed and vegetatively through its rhizomatous root system.
Lepidosperma viscidum is found in a range of habitats across eastern Australia, including New South Wales and Queensland. It thrives in moist to wet environments, often found in swamps, along the edges of creeks and rivers, and in damp depressions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a variety of soil types, provided they retain adequate moisture. While it is a native species, its cultivation requirements are generally straightforward for those seeking to establish it in suitable garden settings, particularly in areas with consistently damp soil.
Ecologically, Lepidosperma viscidum plays a role in stabilizing soil in riparian zones and providing habitat for various invertebrates and small fauna. Its dense tussocks offer shelter and nesting sites. While not widely recognized for significant ornamental, medicinal, or culinary uses, its ecological importance in its native environment is notable. The sticky exudate on its stems is an interesting characteristic, though its precise ecological function, such as deterring herbivores or aiding in seed dispersal, is not extensively documented in readily accessible literature. This adaptation, along with its robust growth in wet conditions, makes Lepidosperma viscidum a resilient component of Australian wetland ecosystems.