Description
Cyperus alternifolius 'Gracilis', known as dwarf umbrella plant, is a finer, smaller form of umbrella plant. Its slim, upright stems are topped by umbrella-like whorls of narrow, dark green leaves.
Dwarf umbrella plant at a glance
| Botanical name |
Cyperus involucratus (sold as Cyperus alternifolius 'Gracilis') |
| Common name |
Dwarf umbrella plant, umbrella sedge |
| Plant type |
Evergreen sedge if kept frost-free |
| Height and spread |
About 90 cm tall, 50–100 cm wide |
| Flowers |
Small, greenish-brown, from July; not showy |
| Position |
Full sun or part shade |
| Soil |
Wet soil or shallow water |
| Pond depth |
0–5 cm of water in summer (one grower allows up to 10 cm over the crown) |
| Hardiness |
RHS H1c – tender; needs a heated greenhouse or indoors in winter (5 to 10°C) (rating for Cyperus involucratus) |
| Native to |
Not UK native |
Is umbrella plant hardy in the UK?
No. It is tender. The RHS rates umbrella plant H1c, which means it needs a minimum of 5–10°C in winter. Grow it in the pond or on the patio in summer, then bring it indoors or into a heated greenhouse before the first frost.
Where to plant it
- A summer pond shelf, 0–5 cm deep
- Patio ponds and pots of wet compost
- A frost-free conservatory or room in winter (minimum 5–10°C)
How to plant and care for it
Put it outside after the last frost, in wet soil or very shallow water. It is generally free of pests and diseases.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
