Cyperus papyrus (Papyrus)

Adding an exotic and tropical feel to any garden pond, Cyperus papyrus (Papyrus) is a tender aquatic perennial forming a clump of erect, triangular stems that sprout from woody rhizomes. Atop the stem rests a rounded umbel, 12 in. across (30 cm), adorned with many slender arching threads. Greenish-brown flower clusters appear during the summer and eventually produce brown nut-like fruits. Providing year-round interest, this member of the sedge family is a bold and dramatic addition to the water garden thanks to its strongly upright foliage and fireworks-like flower heads. This foliage plant creates a lovely background for other pond plants, too. While papyrus plants are perennials in warm climates, many gardeners use them as if they were annuals in colder climates. Cyperus papyrus is the plant the Egyptians used to make their paper.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 5-12 ft. tall (150-360 cm) and 2-5 ft. wide (60-150 cm). Papyrus is a vigorous grower that can grow up to 12 ft. tall in its native habitat, but the ornamental selections are typically a more modest 3-6 ft. (90-180 cm).
• Performs best in full sun or partial shade in wet soils. While it thrives in consistently moist garden soil, it can also be planted in standing water to 6 in. deep (15 cm).
• This architectural grass is highly versatile. It may be grown at the edge of a pond or water garden, in boggy areas, in shallow water and in containers.
• Virtually disease and pest free
• Cut back dead stems and culms in fall.
• Propagate by seed at 18 to 21°C in spring in constantly moist seed compost.
• Native to Africa.