Description
Cyperus papyrus 'King Tut' (RHS: Cyperus papyrus Graceful Grasses King Tut) is a tall form of Egyptian papyrus. Its dark green stems are topped with round heads of fine, grass-like rays, like green starbursts. It is sometimes sold as 'Cyperus percamenthus', which is not a recognised botanical name.
'King Tut' at a glance
| Botanical name |
Cyperus papyrus Graceful Grasses King Tut (sold as Cyperus percamenthus) |
| Common name |
King Tut papyrus, Egyptian papyrus |
| Plant type |
Tall, tender perennial grown for its foliage |
| Height and spread |
About 1–1.5 m tall (sources differ), up to 50 cm wide |
| Flowers |
Tiny brown spikelets, summer to autumn; not showy |
| Position |
Full sun or part shade |
| Soil |
Constantly wet soil |
| Pond depth |
0–5 cm of water; keep the crown above the water |
| Hardiness |
RHS H1c – tender; needs a heated greenhouse or indoors in winter (5 to 10°C) |
| Native to |
Garden form of an African plant (not UK native) |
Is 'King Tut' hardy?
No. The RHS rates it H1c: it needs 5 to 10°C in winter. Grow it outdoors in summer only, then bring the pot into a heated greenhouse or the house before the first frost, or treat it as an annual.
Where to plant it
- The shallow edge of a pond in summer, with the crown above the water
- A pot stood in a shallow tray of water
How to plant and care for it
Plant out after the last frost in wet soil or very shallow water, never covering the crown. The RHS describes it as 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.
