Papyrus

Cyperus papyrus L. (with notes on C. prolifer)

sigh-PEAR-us  pap-EYE-rus

Cyperaceae

Explanation of name: Cypeiros is the historical Greek name for members of this genus. Papyrus is the ancient paperlike parchment made from the stalks of this plant.

Natural range: Old World

Recognition and similar species: Very large (up to 8’ tall) shoreline sedge with inconspicuous leaves, large, triangular stems topped with showy, twiggy, almost-leafless inflorescences. ‘Percamentus’ is a (semi)dwarf cultivar sometimes used for bonsai. Called “Dwarf Papyrus,” Cyperus prolifer Lam. (synonyms: Cyperus isocladus Kunth (WU2), Cyperus papyrus ‘Nanus’), from Africa and Madagascar, is marketed also in South Florida and stands 2’-3’ tall. It differs from C. papyrus by not having any bracts in its inflorescence, and by having stiffer, more upright stalks within the inflorescence. It too has escaped cultivation and is listed as Category II by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council.

Landscape uses: A large (except for dwarf cultivar-see below) eye-catching rhizomatous specimen plant for the edges of ponds and other similar watery places. Usage of Cyperus papyrus (and C. prolifer) should be discouraged.

Notes: This is the ancient Papyrus of the Nile.