Umbrella Palm Plant Info

Umbrella palm can add a tropical flair to any garden or indoor space. It’s a grass-like plant that has long stems topped with radiating leaves that resemble the spokes of an umbrella. It’s native to Madagascar, the Arabian Peninsula, and East Africa, but has been widely cultivated as an ornamental plant worldwide. 

Cyperus alternifolius
Umbrella papyrus
Umbrella sedge
Umbrella grass
Umbrella plant
Cyperus alternifolius ‘Variegatus’
Cyperus alternifolius ‘Gracilis’
Cyperus alternifolius ‘Nanus’
Cyperus alternifolius subsp. flabelliformis
Brown flowers

Water

The plant needs lots of water to produce lush foliage You can water it daily or every other day in summer, depending on the soil moisture. Reduce the watering frequency in winter, but don't allow it to dry out completely.

Sunlight

Place the plant in an area that receives full sun to partial shade exposure. It can tolerate some shade, but it grows thinner and loses some color.

Soil

It's best to cultivate it in rich and loamy soil that's high in organic matter and retains moisture well. The plant can grow in sandy or clayey soil, but you may need to amend it–if it's too heavy–with compost, peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite, to improve drainage or fertility.

Fertilizer

Umbrela palm is not a heavy feeder, but you can fertilize it once or twice a year in spring and summer with a balanced liquid dresser diluted to half strength.

Pruning

Remove any dead or damaged stems and leaves. You can also trim it to control its size and shape.

Propagation

It's relatively easy to propagate. You can divide the rhizomes or take stem cuttings.

Thrives in

Indoor or outdoor as long as it receives enough light and water

Toxicity

Not toxic to humans or pets

Pests & Diseases

Aphids
Spider mites
Mealybugs
Root rot
Stem rot
Leaf spot
Rust

Landscaping Ideas

Create a tropical look in a garden or a patio
Add height and texture to a border or a bed
Provide shade and privacy for a seating area or a window
Grow along a pond or a stream edge
Focal point or an accent in a container

Last Updated: August 21, 2023

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Author

Nonkululeko
Nonkululeko
I'm an enthusiastic gardener. I learned the art of growing my own food using sustainable gardening techniques from my father, which I still find effective for healthy plant growth. Gardening has become one of my best hobbies ever since I realized its benefits beyond growing my own food. Through experimenting and connecting with nature, I've found gardening to be a therapeutic and relaxing practice.