Umbrella Plant

Umbrella plant (Cyperus alternifolius) is a clump-forming sedge whose upright stems carry whorls of leaf-like bracts that resemble umbrella spokes. It is grown at pond margins, in water gardens, or as a container plant kept consistently wet; NC State describes it as typically about 4 feet tall and capable of reaching 6 feet outdoors in warm, moist conditions ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cyperus-alternifolius/common-name/umbrella-palm/)). ## Light and Water Grow it in full sun or partial shade, sheltered from strong sun and harsh winds that can damage the bracts. Keep the soil wet or stand the container in shallow water; the roots should remain moist. Fertile soil is preferred. ## Size and Use NC State lists dimensions of 1½–4 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide. The RHS profile gives a smaller cultivated range of 0.5–1 metre tall and 0.1–0.5 metre wide, so mature size varies across published profiles and growing conditions ([RHS plant profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/158275/cyperus-alternifolius-l/details)). The spreading rhizomes and self-seeding can make it weedy in suitable wet habitats. ## Maintenance Trim off dead or dying stems. In containers, maintain a shallow water tray and provide bright filtered light indoors; outdoor plants need protection from harsh exposure.