Identification: What is this? And why is it turning brown?

I have a plant that was given to me and I really would like to know what it is so that I can properly care for it. Can anyone help me?

 

Hi Mary,

Your plant is Cyperus alternifolius - Umbrella Plant. It's probably got brown tips due to lack of moisture. It's a great plant for people who like to water their plants alot.
http://www.plantoftheweek.org/week054.shtml

Newt

 

You should always have this plant sitting in water, just get a pot without any drainage and sett the plant/pot you have inside it adn keep a about 4-5 inches of water in the pot at all times, its a bog plant so they love the moisture.