Cyperus alternifolius
umbrella grass
This eye-catching perennial will add some summer structure to the margins of a pond, or those boggy areas of the garden that never quite dry out.
Cyperus alternifolius forms a clump of upright stems, which are topped with a cluster of leaf-like bracts. Then, from late summer to autumn, small yellow-brown flower spikelets appear, further adding to its appeal.
Cyperus alternifolius forms a clump of upright stems, which are topped with a cluster of leaf-like bracts. Then, from late summer to autumn, small yellow-brown flower spikelets appear, further adding to its appeal.
How to care for Cyperus alternifolius:
Plant in reliably moist or boggy soil, or in pots/pond baskets at the water’s edge, keeping the crown just above water. They prefer full sun but will tolerate light shade. Keep the soil consistently wet, and in winter either move pots indoors or treat as annuals outdoors, as they won’t survive frost.
Prune old or yellowing stems regularly to keep plants tidy and encourage new growth, and divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigour. Fertilise in the growing season with a balanced liquid feed (in pots), or slow-release aquatic fertiliser tablets pushed into the soil near the roots to support strong foliage.
Prune old or yellowing stems regularly to keep plants tidy and encourage new growth, and divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigour. Fertilise in the growing season with a balanced liquid feed (in pots), or slow-release aquatic fertiliser tablets pushed into the soil near the roots to support strong foliage.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
1m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Heavy clay
Hardiness:
Frost tender
-
This pond plant dies right back in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
9cm pot
£11.99
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
1 litre aquatic pot
£21.99
available to order from summer
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3 × 1 litre aquatic pots
£39.99
£13.33 each
available to order from summer
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