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cyperus umbrella plant

The cyperus umbrella plant is an eye-catching, easy-care water-loving plant that brings a lush, tropical feel to New Zealand gardens, patios, or indoor spaces. With its distinctive whorls of umbrella-shaped foliage atop tall, slender stems, this attractive sedge offers year-round interest and thrives in wet conditions where many other plants struggle. Whether you want to enhance your pond, create a green oasis indoors, or design a moisture-loving border, the cyperus umbrella plant is a versatile and rewarding choice.

Cyperus ustulatus growing in water.

Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge)

Cyperus ustulatus, commonly known as the Giant Umbrella Sedge, is a large and robust NZ native grass. It grows as a clump and produces dark green leaves that have minute, sharp teeth along the margins. The foliage is complemented with green flowers in summer, which age to brown as it grows to 1.5 metres high and the same width. Cyperus ustulatus is commonly planted beside pools or streams, included in revegetation and riparian plantings, used in wetland gardens, or mass planted in areas where a hardy and aesthetic grass is required.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Grasses
Height: 1.50 m
Spread: 1.50 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses: Banks, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Riparian
cyperus-papyrus-nana-3

Cyperus papyrus Nana (Dwarf Papyrus)

5 from 2 customers

Cyperus papyrus Nana, the Dwarf Papyrus, is a perennial grass with bright green leaves and distinctive umbrella-like flower sprays in summer. Growing to 50 cm tall and wide, it's ideal for water gardens, tropical plantings, and poolside displays.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Grasses
Height: 50 cm
Spread: 50 cm
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wet
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
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Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge)

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Search cyperus umbrella plant

What Is the Cyperus Umbrella Plant?

The cyperus umbrella plant belongs to the Cyperaceae family and is most commonly identified as Cyperus involucratus. Native to Madagascar, this plant is prized for its unique foliage – radiating green bracts that resemble the ribs of an umbrella. As a semi-aquatic species, it flourishes when its roots remain moist or even submerged, making it perfect for pond edges, water features, rain gardens, and other damp sites.

Uses for the Cyperus Umbrella Plant

This adaptable plant has many uses in New Zealand gardens. The cyperus umbrella plant is frequently used to:

For a dramatic feature in large landscapes, consider pairing the umbrella plant with related statement grasses like Cyperus papyrus (Umbrella Papyrus) or the native Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge). For smaller containers or tight spots, turn to the petite Cyperus papyrus Nana (Dwarf Papyrus) or the compact Cyperus haspan for a similar look.

Growing Tips for Cyperus Umbrella Plant in New Zealand

The cyperus umbrella plant thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers consistently damp to wet soil. Plant it at the edge of a pond, in a rain garden, or in containers with saucers kept wet. For indoor cultivation, provide bright filtered light and water regularly to keep the roots moist but not waterlogged. In cooler parts of New Zealand, protect the plant from frost or overwinter inside.

Propagation is straightforward: simply divide clumps in spring, or root stem cuttings placed upside down in water. With minimal maintenance, your cyperus umbrella plant will grow quickly and make a wonderful statement, filling out spaces with feathery green foliage.

Discover More Unique Cyperus Species

New Zealand gardeners love the versatility of the cyperus genus. For those who want to explore beyond the beloved cyperus umbrella plant, discover close relatives such as Cyperus involucratus, the bold and architectural Cyperus papyrus (Umbrella Papyrus), our native Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge), the space-saving Cyperus papyrus Nana (Dwarf Papyrus), or water-feature favourite Cyperus haspan.

Whether you’re looking for resilience by the pond or a striking indoor feature, the cyperus umbrella plant and its relatives will reward you with vigorous growth and distinctive good looks.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

From trusted favourites like Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree) and Sambucus nigra to fresh faces like Rosmarinus 'Mozart', Crataegus laevigata Rosea Flore Pleno, and Camellia Roma Red — we’ve got you covered.
–The Plant Company

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