Umbrella Plant (Cyperus involucratus): Graceful Sedges for Water Gardens

Umbrella plant (Cyperus involucratus), also called umbrella papyrus or umbrella palm, is a clump-forming sedge with tall, triangular stems topped by a whorl of 10–25 slender, arching, grass-like leaves (bracts) that resemble an open umbrella. It produces small, brownish flower clusters in the center.

Growth

Grows 3–5 feet tall. Spreads by rhizomes. Thrives in wet soil and shallow water, making it ideal for pond margins, bog gardens, and water features. Can be invasive in warm climates.

Culture

Full sun to part shade; constantly moist to submerged soil. Can be grown in containers submerged in water. Hardy in zones 8–11; in colder zones, overwinter indoors in a water tray.

Taxonomy

• Family: Cyperaceae
• Genus: Cyperus
• Species: involucratus
• Synonyms: Cyperus alternifolius, Cyperus alternifolius subsp. flabelliformis, Cyperus flabelliformis