Papyrus Plant

Botanical Name: Cyperus papyrus

Once used by the ancient Egyptians to make paper, papyrus plant is now cultivated as an ornamental in tropical wetlands. Dwarf varieties, including 'Nanus' and 'Baby Tut' are small enough to grow as house plants.

Dwarf Payprus Plant for Sale

Growing in clumps, the thin papyrus stems are topped with dark-green, grass-like rays that resemble umbrella spokes. Some varieties have fountain-like feathery clusters.

This evergreen plant grows from thick rhizomes. Fast-growing, it's considered a weed in some countries. However, it won't spread too far in a pot.

Papyrus flowers in late summer, when given enough sunlight. The greenish-brown flower clusters appear at the crown of the rayed stems.

Native to wetlands, this exotic-looking plant prefers wet soil so it's almost impossible to overwater. You can leave the pot in a saucer filled with water, if you want. Just don't let this plant dry out. Brown tips are a sign that the soil is dry.

Repot in spring when the roots have filled the pot. Move up only 1 size larger.

Papyrus Plant Care

Origin: Africa

Height: Up to 10 ft (3 m); dwarf papyrus grows to 2 ft (60 cm)

Light: Full sunlight to low light

Water: Keep the soil evenly moist at all times. Never allow the soil to dry out.

Humidity: Average room humidity

Temperature: Normal room temperatures 60-75°F, 16-24°C

Soil: Any good potting mix.

Fertilizer: Feed monthly spring through fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Only fertilize when watering to avoid fertilizer burn.

Propagation: Divide plant in spring. Or, take 4 in (10 cm) stem tip cuttings in spring and root them in water. Papyrus plant is also easy to grow from seed.