Umbrella papyrus care: watering, light and repotting
Also called papyrus, cyperus, umbrella sedge · Cyperus alternifolius · Cyperaceae family
3 d in winter
How often to water the umbrella papyrus?
Allow about 2 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 3 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
The one plant you can't overwater: always leave water in the saucer.
What light does it need?
The umbrella papyrus likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every year, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 3 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 2–4 ft (60 cm–1.2 m).
Common problems
Browning tips
Cause: Not enough water. What to do: Keep about an inch (2 cm) of water in the saucer at all times.
Yellowing stems
Cause: Ageing. What to do: Cut them at the base; new stems will come.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the umbrella papyrus?
About every 2 days in spring and summer, and every 3 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the umbrella papyrus?
The umbrella papyrus likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the umbrella papyrus?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the umbrella papyrus?
Every year, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the umbrella papyrus safe?
No toxicity is known, but no veterinary source has confirmed it: to be safe, keep the plant out of reach of pets and young children.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the umbrella papyrus forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.