Cyperus prolifer

The Latin name Cyperus prolifer describes this plant to a tea.  While Cyperus translates to sedge, prolifer means 'increasing by production of side-shoots', which is how this plant spreads to form colonies.  One of its common names, Dwarf Papyrus, refers to its resemblance to that plant in a dwarf habit.  

Preferring full sun or light to partial shade, it can be used in water gardens or as a houseplant.  It must be keep moist or grown in standing water.  It will spread by rhizomes but is easy to manage. 

During its growing season, culms are produced from the growing tip of each rhizome producing a cluster of grass-like flower spikelets.  

Spreading by it shoots that emerge in wet soils, it will quickly establish a colony where the root system will help to filter the water and thereby keep the water clean.  In addition to its filtering of wet areas, it will also add a pleasing, decorative element to the landscape.   

Cultivated varieties seldom produce fruits.  The fruits of a non-cultivated plant have one seed per achene that is dispersed by water and wind.  

In its native Madagascar, the dried culms are used for basket-weaving.  Ancient Egyptians used this variety to create writing canvases.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  It not survive in dry or drought conditions.