804.090 Platycaulos H.P. Linder

Culms usually branching, bearing persistent leaf-sheaths. Male spikelets in panicles or spikes, usually many per inflorescence (less often solitary and terminal); usually many florets per spikelet; each floret with a spathe or sheath at base; bracts many; perianth of 4-6 segments in 2 rows. Female inflorescence similar to or quite different from the male inflorescence, often with larger spikelets. Female spikelets with few-several bracts; perianth segments bony; ovary 1-3-locular; styles 3, plumose. Fruit a capsule, (1-)2-3-seeded.

Worldwide: 12 species in Africa and Madagascar.

Zimbabwe: 1 taxon.