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Description
Native to the lakes and rivers of northern Africa Cyperus papyrus is one of the stateliest of all water plants for mild climates.
Extremely rampant, it grows 1.5 - 3m (5-10ft) tall and spreads indefinitely.
The graceful stems arise from a network of thick woody rhizomes that tend to form large clumps. The stems are topped by feathery clusters of wiry branched "spikes" that are 15-30 cm (5-12 in) in length and arranged in delicate, sphere-shaped umbels. A small flower is held at the tip of each spikelet in summer. The flowers are greenish, and wind pollinated. The seed is a small nutlet.
Popular as an ornamental landscape plant for medium to large water features, especially in warmer climates.
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Growing
Cyperus Papyrus grows in swampy areas or shallow, calm water and wet soils. It does well at water's edge or in boggy ground, spreads quickly and extensively. Full sun is preferable, but it will do well in partial shade. (A lack of new stems may indicate too little light).
Shelter from strong winds and protect from freezing temperatures.
You can also grow it on moist soil, such as wet spots in your garden, however, it does better on high moisture conditions. Grow in rich compost and water well. Repot when the plant fills the container. If the tips turn brown, the atmosphere may be too dry. In poorer soils Papyrus is less enthusiastic and more likely to stay in bounds.
Usage:
Use for pools, ponds and containers in frostfree areas, for bogs and water gardens. Also suitable as an indoor plant. Papyrus is a big plant and it needs space in order to make an impact. If allowed to form a large colony it will achieve the best effect. Alternatively, a single clump can serve as a focal point, or used in pairs it can frame a scene. When used in smaller pools and fishponds, grow papyrus in containers placed underwater. This keeps it from invading other plants' territories and simplifies maintenance.
Suitable companion aquatic plants (to provide texture or colour) include Torch Lily (Kniphofia), Arum Lily (Zantedeschia), or shrubby species of Willow (Salix).
Propagation:
Propagate by division of the rhizome in spring. In winter the oldest culms dry off and can be removed with a sharp implement. New culms will be formed in spring from the growing point of the rhizome.
Pests:
No pests have been observed to attack Cyperus papyrus, with the exception of a rust fungus which appears to be specific to the family.
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