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Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus), Grass

Varieties We Bring In

StandardCyperus papyrus
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$16.95

Last received Mar 4, 2026.

We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.

Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.

LightFull Sun, Part Shade
WaterHigh
Salt toleranceLow
Mature size8-15 feet × 3-4 feet

Pet toxicity: Non-toxic to dogs and cats

Pet safety guide

About Papyrus

Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus) is a tall, architectural aquatic sedge native to sub-Saharan Africa, best known as the source of ancient Egyptian writing material. It produces distinctive globe-shaped umbels of thread-like rays atop tall triangular stems, making it a striking accent in water features and pond margins.

Plant details

Bloom Season
Summer
Flower Color
Non-flowering
Growth Rate
Fast
Foliage
Evergreen
Soil
Loam, Sandy, Wet, Boggy

Best planting months

Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL

Recommended months: March, April, May, September, October, November.

January, other month
February, other month
March, good window
April, good window
May, good window
June, other month
July, other month
August, other month
September, good window
October, good window
November, good window, this month
December, other month
This monthGood windowOther months

Seasonal care

Good planting window.

Care essentials

Light

Papyrus thrives in full sun to part shade and is ideal for pond margins, water features, and rain gardens in NE Florida. Full sun produces the most vigorous growth and tallest stems; part shade is acceptable but may reduce vigor slightly.

Water

A true aquatic—plant in standing water up to 12 inches deep or in perpetually wet, boggy soil at the water's edge. Never allow the roots to dry out. In containers, keep the pot sitting in a saucer of water or submerged in a pond.

Soil & Fertilizer

Grows in ordinary wet soil, sandy loam, or aquatic planting media in pond baskets. Fertilize with aquatic slow-release tablets pressed into the root zone in spring and summer. Division every 2–3 years keeps clumps vigorous. Hardy in zone 9b but may die back to roots in hard freezes; mulch crowns for protection.

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Common questions

Is Papyrus a good plant for St. Augustine?

Papyrus is a grass. Mature size: 8-15 feet × 3-4 feet. Light: Full Sun, Part Shade. Water needs: High. Recorded hardiness zone: 9a. Recorded salt tolerance: low.

What is the recorded pet toxicity for Papyrus?

Non-toxic to dogs and cats

Care information verified from

Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.