Tufted perennial. Stem up to 150 cm. Leaves subbasal, to equaling stem, blades 3-4 mm wide. Inflorescence drooping, with terminal and up to 12 lateral partial inflorescences; bracts shorter than their partial inflorescence; partial inflorescences formed by (1-)2 to several peduncled spikes extending from the sheath of bract, longer frequently branched; spikes 1.2-2 cm, all androgynous; female glumes 2.5-3 mm, lanceolate, acute, sides scarious with brown margins; utricles c. 3.9 x 1 mm, ellipsoid, biconvex, glabrous; beak c. 1.5 mm, bidentate. Stigmas 2.