This tender perennial is a very old species, native to the Nile region of Egypt, and once used by the Egyptians for making baskets, string, shoes, ropes and of course, paper. Produces tall, dark green stems, each topped with a large, graceful umbrella of up to 100 thread-like leaves. Being a reed it grows well in water and will do equally well in a pot or tub partly submerged in water. A rapid grower it will form a sizeable plant in its first year. Makes an unrivalled, decorative houseplant which would look fabulous as a feature plant in a conservatory and can be moved outside in summer.

Tender Perennial (min 7C)
Height: 2-3m
Position: Sun and wet soil

Packet of 20 seeds

GROWING GUIDE

Sowing Instructions: Sow at any time of year.  Sow in pots or trays on the surface of a moist, free-draining seed compost and do not cover the seed. Seal inside a polythene bag or place in a propagator and maintain a temperature of 20-23C. Make sure the compost remains moist. Germination should take place in 30-40 days, but may take longer.

Growing Instructions: When the seedlings are large enough to handle, pot up individually into small pots (7-9cm) and grow on in well-ventilated, slightly cooler conditions (min 15C until well established), repotting as necessary. Keep compost moist at all times.

Aftercare: Needs a minimum of 7C so does well as a houseplant but can be moved outside in summer provided the night temperature does not drop below 7C. Place in a sheltered, sunny spot out of strong winds and keep the soil wet at all times.