Cyperus alternifolius (sy-PEER-us al-tern-ee-FOH-lee-us) is a grass-like perennial plant native to tropical areas of Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Peninsula.
Because of its tropical habitat, this is one of the few plants you can’t overwater. Instead, it prefers a swamp-like atmosphere, often planted in water or a double pot filled with water.
In addition to swamps, it’s often found next to streams or in wet grasslands.
Cyperus alternifolius does best in USDA zones 9 to 12, where temperatures are most tropical. It grows up to 4′ feet but is usually only a foot or two.
The plant is often referred to as umbrella papyrus, umbrella sedge, umbrella palm, or umbrella grass because the plant has the appearance of umbrella spokes.
Cyperus comes from the Greek word “kupeiros,” which means sedge. Like some varieties of sedge, the Cyperus alternifolius can become invasive due to its spread via rhizomes.
Although its native habitat is tropical, it grows just as well indoors as long as you water it consistently.
Although it has high watering needs, it is a very easy houseplant in every other way.
Some of Cyperus alternifolius common names are:
- Umbrella papyrus
- Upside down umbrella plant
- Umbrella sedge
- Umbrella palm
- Umbrella grass
Quick Facts On Cyperus Alternifolius
- Family: Cyperaceae
- Light: Sun to part shade
- Temperature: 50° to 72° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Regular watering needs
- Fertilizer: Decomposed organic fertilizer monthly during the growing season
- Propagation: Cuttings or division
- Common Problems: Spider mites, aphids, mealybugs
Caring for an Cyperus Alternifolius
What Does The Cyperus Umbrella Plant Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The Umbrella plant is an aquatic plant with leaf-like structures that form the “umbrella.”
The umbrella-shaped leaves can be green to reddish-brown and are arranged in a spiral at the very top of the stem.
The leaf-like structures are often confused for leaves, but the plant’s true leaves cover the bases of the stems.
The Umbrella Papyrus plant usually grows to 2′ feet tall, but in the wild is known to grow up to 5′ feet.
When Does The Umbrella Plant Bloom? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The umbrella plant occasionally flowers in the summer but rarely if planted indoors.
If it blooms, the flowers can be whitish-yellow or brown-ish. The flowers are not fragrant.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
The Umbrella Papyrus plant thrives in part shade as full sun can scorch the leaves.
You can plant it outdoors in zones 8 to 11, but you should keep it indoors in any other zones.
The perfect temperature for the cyperus plant ranges from 50° to 72° degrees Fahrenheit, but it can tolerate cooler temperatures down to around 39° degrees Fahrenheit for short periods.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Umbrella Plant?
The most crucial factor in keeping this plant alive is ensuring it is sufficiently watered.
Its native habitat is in swampy marshes or other wet grasslands where the roots are constantly exposed to water. Therefore, the plant thrives when the roots are consistently moist.
Many gardeners place the plant in a second pot filled with water so the roots have constant access to water.
It is best to fertilize this plant with decomposed organic fertilizer monthly during the growing season for the best growth.
What Is The Best Soil For Cyperus Alternifolius, And When Should You Transplant?
Peaty soil is best for your Umbrella papyrus plant, although it is not as fussy about soil as water.
It’s best to repot it in a slightly larger pot in the spring.
Does Cyperus Alternifolius Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Umbrella Papyrus is a low-maintenance plant, but it grows long roots that sometimes grow out of the pot.
Because of this, most people cut the roots to keep them maintained.
The plant can withstand major root cutting, so do not hesitate to trim back the plant’s roots.
In addition to cutting back the roots, you can also prune any leaves and stems that are damaged or dead.
How To Propagate Umbrella Papyrus?
Cyperus alternifolius propagation is easy.
Most gardeners propagate the Umbrella grass plant by stem cuttings, but you can also divide the plant or propagate it via seeds.
Here’s how to do it:
- Use sharp pruning shears and remove a 4″ to 6″ inches stem.
- Remove about half of the leaves from the stem.
- Place the cutting upside down in small cups of water.
- The submerged cutting will form a new stem within a few weeks.
- The new stem will develop roots and new leaflets.
- When the new stem has rooted, remove it from the main stem.
- Place the newly rooted stem into a new pot with soil.
- Water the new Umbrella sedge plant regularly.
Cyperus Alternifolius Palm Pests And Diseases
Cyperus alternifolius is loved because it’s easy to take care of and is not very susceptible to pests or diseases. Although, several insects can still occasionally attack it.
The most common issues with the Umbrella palm plant are:
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Mealybugs
A simple treatment with neem oil or insecticide will solve the problem.
Suggested Umbrella Sedge Uses
Umbrella sedge needs water, so it is often planted in water, like a border plant in a pond, lake, river, marsh, or bog.
If you have an outdoor water feature, your Umbrella grass will do well in a backyard pond or aquarium.
However, as long as it has access to enough water, you can keep your Umbrella grass indoors as an interiorscape plant or container plant.
Wherever you keep your Umbrella grass, it will do well if you give it plenty of water.