Cyperus albostriatus aka Dwarf Umbrella Grass

Cyperus albostriatus is an evergreen sedge in the Cyperaceae family. Its native range covers southern tropical Africa and southern Africa. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. This perennial forms clumps and keeps its green foliage year-round. The name Cyperus diffusus has been wrongly applied to it. That name should not be treated as its correct identity.

The plant has a low, tufted form with narrow leaves. These strap-shaped leaves spread out to make an umbrella shape. In gardens, plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall. Their spread ranges from 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. They take about two to five years to reach full size. Fine sprays of greenish flowers can appear throughout the year. The green leaves give it garden interest beyond its flowers. Its clumped shape suits ground cover beside a pond.

Grow this sedge in soil that holds plenty of moisture. It suits bog gardens and the shallow edges of ponds. Clay and loam are both suitable soil types. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil, including poorly drained ground. Outdoors, it grows in full sun or partial shade. Choose a sheltered spot rather than an exposed site. The RHS gives it a UK hardiness rating of H4. This rating covers minimum temperatures of 14–23°F [−10 to −5°C]. Pond-edge planting is suggested for areas with milder weather.

Indoors, place it in a shaded part of the house. Keep it standing in about 0.4 inches [1 centimetre] of water. It also suits patio pots and other garden containers. Garden uses include courtyard spaces and informal or cottage gardens. Its foliage and compact clumps provide the main landscape value. The RHS includes it among plants suited to low-maintenance planting. Its water needs still matter when grown in a pot.

This sedge grows strongly and may become troublesome in small gardens. Allow for its spread when choosing a planting spot. Propagate it by dividing an established clump into smaller plants. Remove stems as they die or begin to decline. Cut back flowerheads once they lose their fresh appearance. The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems. The supplied evidence does not establish edibility or toxicity.