Abstract: OBJECTIVE To determine the content of heavy metal in Cyperus esculentus from different producing areas. METHODS The content of As, Hg, Pb, and Cd in Cyperus esculentus were determined by atomic fluorescence spectrometry. RESULTS There was a certain difference of heavy metal content in Cyperus esculentus from different producing areas, but all heavy metal contents were far below the Green Trade Standards of Importing and Exporting Medicinal Plants and Preparations (2001). The quality was in line with the standard requirements. CONCLUSION Atomic fluorescence spectrometry was rapid, simple and accurate, while the determination of heavy metal in Cyperus esculentus could provide reference for the quality evaluation of Cyperus esculentus.