Stem 3-10 mm diam., finely papillose, glaucous green. Sheaths glaucous green, sometimes reddish. Inflorescence up to 90 mm, spikes 2-5 together, some solitary; glumes 2.8-4.3 mm, midnerve area often reddish, barbed, sides smooth, obscurely nerved, often with reddish brown dots (seldom some barbs). Stigmas 2 (-3).