How to care for the dwarf umbrella sedge (Cyperus diffusus)

dwarf umbrella sedge plant care

The dwarf umbrella sedge (Cyperus diffusus) grows only to about 60 centimeters tall. It differs from Cyperus alternifolius, a species that is also cultivated as an indoor plant, in its broader bracts. I have found conflicting information about its origin, KEW mentions tropical Africa as its natural range, and according to Worldfloraonline it is native from Mexico to Argentina.

Dwarf Umbrella Sedge Cyperus diffusus

Cyperus diffusus care

Summary: The dwarf umbrella sedge likes warm, bright to sunny areas throughout the year and does not tolerate drought.

Cyperus diffusus

Position

Bright to partially sunny locations with morning, late evening and winter sun are fine. Cyperus diffusus will tolerate full summer sun if the pot is large enough to prevent the soil from drying out within a few hours.

Cyperus diffusus Salvia splendens
Cyperus diffusus and Salvia splendens

Soil & watering

Mixtures for indoor plant and other container plants, herbs or vegetables are suitable.

Substrates for pond plants or mineral mixes for succulents based on clay and pumice gravel can also be used.

The mix you choose will depend on your watering habits.

Substrates based on humus (“standard potting soils”) tend to rot if they are constantly submerged in water. They should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings.

For swampy growing, such as in a jar or tray, clay and mineral mixes are the better choice.

Dwarf Umbrella Sedge

Temperature

Cyperus diffusus does well at room temperature all year round and should not be kept below 15°C for long periods in winter. However, it will tolerate lower temperatures for short periods.

Cyperus diffusus Diffused Flatsedge

Pests

Cyperus diffusus is susceptible to spider mites in winter.

Cyperus diffusus umbrella plant
Cyperus diffusus is also called umbrella plant. But this name is more common for Schefflera arboricola.