
King Tut Papyrus
Cyperus papyrus 'King Tut'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
60 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Requires consistently wet soil or water
Humidity
High humidity preferred
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Africa and Middle East
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Cyperus papyrus 'King Tut' is a tall, clumping sedge with tufted, umbrella-like foliage and distinctive, airy clusters of feathery, reddish-brown flower spikes that rise above the foliage. This cultivar is a compact, dwarf variety ideal for container gardening and water features, offering a striking architectural presence in small spaces.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shallow pond or water feature with full sun.
- Tuck roots into moist soil or water, ensuring stability.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during establishment.
- Water consistently to keep soil wet, especially in dry seasons.
- Remove dead foliage in late winter to promote healthy growth.
- Divide every 2-3 years to prevent overcrowding.
Pro Tip
Ensure consistent moisture and full sun for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 💧
- Provide full sun for vigorous growth
- Divide every few years to prevent overcrowding
- Remove dead foliage in winter
Don't
- Do not let soil dry out completely ❌
- Avoid planting in deep shade
- Do not neglect dividing over time
- Avoid using harsh chemical fertilizers
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
King Tut Papyrus questions
What zones can King Tut Papyrus grow in?
King Tut Papyrus is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is King Tut Papyrus deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse King Tut Papyrus, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does King Tut Papyrus bloom?
King Tut Papyrus typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does King Tut Papyrus need full sun?
King Tut Papyrus does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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Baby Tut Dwarf Umbrella Plant
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Prince Tut Papyrus
Cyperus involucratus 'Prince Tut'
