Cyperus alternifolius
Cyperus alternifolius, with the common names of umbrella papyrus, umbrella sedge or umbrella palm, is a grass-like plant in the very large genus Cyperus of the sedge family, Cyperaceae.
Cyperus alternifolius | |
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Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Clade: | Tracheophytes |
Clade: | Angiosperms |
Clade: | Monocots |
Clade: | Commelinids |
Order: | Poales |
Family: | Cyperaceae |
Genus: | Cyperus |
Species: | C. alternifolius |
Binomial name | |
Cyperus alternifolius Rottb., 1772 | |
The plant is native to Madagascar, one of the western Indian Ocean islands.
The subspecies Cyperus alternifolius ssp. flabelliformis is also known as Cyperus flabelliformis = Cyperus involucratus Rottb..[1]
Cultivation
Cyperus alternifolius is frequently cultivated as an ornamental plant worldwide. It is planted in gardens in the ground, pots, and in ponds, and as a house plant. It is hardy to USDA Zones: 9a-11b.[2]
It is propagated by dividing the roots and requires copious amounts of water.[3]
The cultivar Cyperus alternifolius 'Variegatus' is grown for its variegated foliage and smaller size.[4]
References
- Kew; et al. "Cyperus alternifolius". The Plant List. Retrieved January 23, 2013.
- "Graceful Grasses® Baby Tut® - Umbrella Grass - Cyperus involucratus". Proven Winners. Retrieved September 22, 2019.
- Pink, Alfred (April 1, 2004). Gardening for the Million. Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation.
- "Cyperus alternifolius Variegatus". Missouri Botanical Garden.org. Retrieved January 23, 2013.