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 and as a house plant.

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.

Papyrus Plant Care

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.

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.