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Description
Cyperus Alternifolius Subsp. Flabelliformis, commonly known as Umbrella Papyrus or Umbrella Sedge, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to Madagascar and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. This plant is characterized by its tall and slender stems that can grow up to 3 feet in height. The stems are topped with fan-like clusters of leaves that resemble an umbrella, hence its common name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Cyperus |
Appearance
Umbrella Papyrus has tall and slender stems that can grow up to 3 feet in height. The stems are topped with fan-like clusters of leaves that resemble an umbrella, hence its common name. The leaves are about 10 inches long and arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The plant produces small flowers that are brownish-green in color and grow in clusters at the top of the stems.
Care Guide
To care for Umbrella Papyrus, you should provide it with plenty of water and fertilization. The plant prefers to be grown in moist soil, so it’s important to keep the soil consistently damp. You can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Umbrella Papyrus prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Umbrella Papyrus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so it’s important to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Umbrella Papyrus is native to Madagascar and is commonly found in wetlands and along the edges of rivers and lakes. It is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world as an ornamental plant and for its many uses, including as a source of fiber for making paper.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Umbrella Papyrus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Umbrella Papyrus can be grown indoors in a container with moist soil and a bright location.
Q: How often should I water Umbrella Papyrus?
A: Umbrella Papyrus prefers consistently moist soil, so it’s important to water it regularly to keep the soil damp.
Q: Can Umbrella Papyrus be propagated?
A: Yes, Umbrella Papyrus can be propagated through division or by taking stem cuttings.
Q: Is Umbrella Papyrus toxic to pets?
A: Umbrella Papyrus is not considered toxic to pets, but it’s always a good idea to keep plants out of reach of pets to avoid ingestion.
Related Plants
– Cyperus Papyrus- Cyperus Haspan- Cyperus Rotundus- Cyperus Longus- Cyperus Esculentus
References
– “Cyperus Alternifolius Subsp. Flabelliformis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h480.- “Umbrella Papyrus (Cyperus Alternifolius).” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/cyperus-alternifolius-umbrella-papyrus.
