Papyrus

Papyrus

The famous paper making plant of the Nile River, the papyrus plant doesn’t actually require a river to thrive. It is an easy to grow perennial that is unfussy so long as you give it summer water. It can be damaged in cold winter temperatures but so far has been easily hardy for us here, growing back from the roots in particularly cold winters. Not sure how much you’d have to grow to make your own paper but it is certainly a great plant texture to add to soggy areas or anywhere you want a cheerful grassy plant.

Latin Name: Cyperus papyrus
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Hardiness: Hardy to about 10-15º F., possibly root hardy to lower
Size at Maturity: 3-4 feet in height and clumping
Pests & Diseases: Not bothered by significant pest or disease problems.
USDA Zone: 8b/9a