Perennial, 25-90 cm. Stem 0.8-3.5 mm diam. Leaves from c. 1/2 to c. as long as stem; sheaths 3-10 cm. Inflorescence of 1 to c. 30 heads of spikes; bracts 1-3 leaf-like, lowest 2-20 cm, mostly erect, other shorter, patent or reflexed; primary branches up to 40 mm; secondary branches occasional, up to 10 mm.