Cyperus alternifolius subsp. textilis, commonly known as Umbrella Papyrus, Umbrella Sedge, or Nile Grass, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to South Africa and other regions of Africa, including Madagascar, where itthrives in wetlands, marshes, and along riverbanks. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height and width of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters). This plant is characterized by its attractive clumps of grass-like foliage and distinctive bracts that radiate outwards, resembling the spokes of an umbrella. The greenish-brown flowers are small and clustered, blooming in the summer, and while not particularly showy, they add a textural interest to the plant’s overall appearance.

Umbrella Papyrus is valued for its unique architectural form and is often used in water gardens, bog gardens, and as a container plant to bring a tropical feel to the landscape. It is relatively easy to maintain, provided it has constant moisture and does not dry out. It can be propagated by division, making it a cost-effective choice for large-scale plantings. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade, and thrives in very slow draining loam or sandy soils, with high or very high amounts of water. While generally disease-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not sufficiently moist. It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected or moved indoors in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0