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Papyrus sedge
Also known as: Indian matting plant, Egyptian papyrus
Papyrus sedge (Cyperus papyrus) is an aquatic flowering plant that’s originally from Africa. It was used by the ancient Egyptians to make papyrus, one of the earliest kinds of paper. For thousands of years, people have tied the stems together to build boats. Nowadays, it’s often used ornamentally. It’s close to extinction in the Nile Delta region—one of the places it calls home.
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Perennial, Annual
Lifespan
Grass
Plant Type
Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Fall
Harvest Time
4 m to 5 m
Plant Height
60 cm to 1.5 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
6 mm to 1 cm
Flower Size
Brown
Fruit Color
Brown, Green, White, Red
Flower Color
Green, Brown
Stem Color
Non-dormant
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature

Images of Papyrus sedge

Distribution of Papyrus sedge

Distribution Map
Papyrus sedge is native to various regions across the African continent, thriving primarily in the wetter environments. Its presence is established in a widespread area, encompassing both the central and eastern parts of Africa. Additionally, papyrus sedge has been introduced to an array of locations around the globe, from Asia to the Americas and even to parts of Europe. While it is cultivated for ornamental and utility purposes, papyrus sedge is sometimes thought to be an unwelcome inhabitant outside its native range, where it may have an impact on local ecosystems. However, the extent of such influence often remains a subject of ecological consideration rather than a stated fact.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Swamps, shallow lakes, along stream banks throughout Africa
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
Papyrus sedge is a good focal point choice for adding height and interest to informal gardens. It works well in boggy yard areas, near ponds, or in water gardens. Greenhouse gardeners may also grow them as annuals, taking care to shelter them from colder temperatures. Flowering plants like Petunias and Verbena will combine well to add pretty splashes of color.
Symbolism
Protection
Name Story
Papyrus sedge: Egyptians used the plant which they call it "aaru", for many purposes and most famously for making papyrus. Its name in Greek and in English is widely believed to have come from Egyptian. Therefore, it is called papyrus sedge.
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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Papyrus sedge, including the following common varieties :

Quickly Identify Papyrus sedge

1
Tall stems reach 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters), with umbrella-like clusters of arching rays and bracts.
2
Distinctive triangular green stems grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) without branching, forming dense clumps.
3
Brown, nut-like indehiscent achenes encased in greenish-brown involucre, about 0.2 inches (5 mm) long.
4
Reduced red-brown triangular protective scales around stem base, 0.5-1 inch (1-2.5 cm) in length.
5
Flowers with bright green feather-like rays, 4-12 inches (10-30 cm) long, produced in dense clusters.
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RELATED: How to identify Papyrus sedge

Care Guide for Papyrus sedge

Twice per week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Potting Mix, Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Papyrus sedge prefers high humidity and moist conditions, thriving in environments similar to tropical wetlands. Watering should occur twice weekly to meet its moisture needs. As an evergreen, papyrus sedge retains water in its leaves, making it suitable for indoor spaces with humidity control.
Fertilize: For optimal growth, papyrus sedge benefits from annual two-inch layers of mulch or compost, especially during spring and summer. Proper fertilization promotes health while avoiding root burn. Adjust frequency based on papyrus sedge's growth stage, ensuring even distribution without contact with stems for effective nourishment.
Pruning: In fall, cut back dead stems of papyrus sedge to prevent disease. Prune carefully; cutting leaflets causes unsightly brown tips, a natural defense mechanism. Avoid cutting brown tips; they will outgrow as the plant develops.
Propagation: Papyrus sedge is a perennial wetland plant with tall stalks and tuft-like clusters, thriving in full sun. Ideal for division in spring or fall, use a sharp tool to separate rhizomes. Plant in moist, fertile soil and ensure regular watering for optimal growth and lush clumping.
Repotting: Repot papyrus sedge every 2-3 years, ideally in late spring, using spacious containers. Keep the soil consistently moist after repotting. Bright, indirect light promotes healthy growth, ensuring papyrus sedge maintains its lush appearance.
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