Tiger nut
Cyperus esculentus
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Pl. E185 — Cyperus esculentus
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IOverview
Overview
Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) is a perennial graminoid native to regions including Afghanistan, Alabama, and Algeria. This plant thrives in moist to wet soil types such as light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It can be found growing up to 0.9 meters tall across various continents like Africa, Asia, and North America. Tiger nut is known for its edible roots and leaves, which are often consumed raw or processed into milk, flour, and snacks. Its adaptability to a wide range of environments, from 8-10 hardiness zones, makes it a versatile plant in cultivation. The light energy requirement and pH tolerance between 5 and 7 further support its growth in diverse conditions.
Quick answers
What is Tiger nut?
Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) is a perennial graminoid native to regions including Afghanistan, Alabama, and Algeria. This plant thrives in moist to wet soil types such as light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It can be found growing up to 0.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tiger nut thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 5 and 7. It is hardy in temperate regions and grows as a perennial, reaching heights of about 0.9 meters. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist; it can tolerate various soil types but prefers well-drained conditions to avoid root rot. Tiger nut's edible parts include leaves and roots, making it versatile for harvesting. Provide plenty of light, with a preference for full sun or partial shade. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Graminoid
Mature size
0.9 m tall
Soil pH
5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Tiger nut for the first time
8steps
Start with tiger nuts by planting them in a well-prepared soil and following basic care steps.
- 1
What you'll need
Tiger nut seeds or tubers, a sunny spot, and good quality soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant tiger nuts in early spring when the soil is starting to warm up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that's light (sandy), medium, or heavy. Ensure it has a pH between 5 and 7.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant tiger nut tubers about 2-3 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilize with compost or well-rotted manure in early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and stems after the first frost to maintain plant health and prepare for winter.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting mulching, not fertilizing, and failing to prune properly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: Oil, Coffee
Other uses:oilWeaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 30 native
Europe4 regions
native (4)AlbaniaBulgariaPortugalSpain
Asia1 region
native (1)Afghanistan
Americas3 regions
native (3)BahamasBelizeBolivia
Africa8 regions
native (8)AlgeriaAngolaBeninBotswanaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCameroon
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Arizona, Arkansas, Aruba, Massachusetts, Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, British Columbia, Cabinda, Cape Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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