Water Plants

Cyperus papyrus

Egyptian papyrus

Cyperus papyrus

Tall triangular stems carry airy, fountain-like heads of green rays. This fast-growing tropical sedge adds height to a water garden or large wet container, but it needs frost-free indoor protection to survive a local winter.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Pond placement: Water garden, moist container or bog edge.
Winter care: Bring indoors before frost to a bright, warm location; keep moist.
Mature size: 5–8 ft. tall × 2–4 ft. wide
Water: Consistently wet soil

Sizes & prices

#1$14.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Wet soil: Tolerates wet soil and shallow standing water.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Upright stems topped with fine green rays.

Water garden care

Planting method: Moist container or pond-edge pot; keep the crown above water and the root ball moist.
Watering: Keep the root ball consistently moist.
Pruning: Remove spent stems at their base, rather than shortening green stems.
Division: Divide crowded plants in spring.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

Royal Horticultural Society

Photo: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0

Reviewed September 27, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.