Cyperus papyrus

Cyperus papyrus is the papyrus of ancient Egypt. It provided the scribes with the precious material that constituted the most important writing medium during Antiquity. Also known as paper reed, this plant does not have leaves, but forms long stems, sometimes exceeding 2m (7ft) in height. Their ends unfold into enormous tufts of fine bracts that compose a feathery umbrella-like appearance. It is a spectacular perennial, arguably the most majestic of aquatic plants in mild climates. It suffers from the first frosts and dies if the thermometer drops below -3°C (26.6°F). Its cultivation in a large pot constantly immersed in water is quite possible. Provide this light and heat-loving papyrus with a very sunny location and a safe shelter for the winter.

Cyperus papyrus belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to the banks of the Nile. It once formed impenetrable thickets in the bed and on the banks of this great Egyptian river, sometimes reaching a height of 5m (16ft). Following the development of the banks and the construction of various infrastructures such as large dams, it has become rare in its original habitat. It is now cultivated in all temperate regions for its fantastic ornamental qualities. It can be grown in gardens in the mildest climates, or in greenhouses or conservatories.

This extremely exuberant plant develops numerous leafless stems from its rhizomes, with a section of 1cm (0.4in) for the largest, reaching about 1.5m (5ft) in height under our climates. It spreads laterally, without theoretical limit. Each stem bears a crown of very fine bracts at its end. In spring, a feathery inflorescence composed of tiny cream-coloured flowers appears in the centre of each crown. These flowers turn brown in summer. The flowers give rise to seeds that will be dispersed by the wind. Cyperus papyrus reproduces by dispersing its seeds and vegetatively by lateral growth of its rhizomes. Unlike other species, it does not propagate by immersing its heads in water.

It is a beautiful species for a patio. It is quite easy to cultivate as long as the soil remains consistently moist. It will work wonders around a small pond on a patio, for example, in the company of Rhodocoma gigantea. These lush perennials will charm enthusiasts of stunning plants with their bamboo-like silhouette, in monumental clusters of large plumes. Majestic as a standalone plant, its association in open ground or in a pot with purple or green leaf cannas, bamboos or nandinas, dieramas, persicarias or even Gomphostigma virgatum is always successful.