Umbrella Plant
What Is An Umbrella Plant?
Well, there is a family of actual umbrella plants which is quite diverse, but the phrase umbrella plant is often lent to any plant who gains long stalks with large foliage toward the top. The actual umbrella plant is classified as papyrus or cyperus involucratus and is a hearty, clump forming family of plants who enjoy moist, warm conditions. Most of these species do quite well in yards and as additional landscaping focal points, but it must be watched rather closely. Rumor has it that these plants will spread in clumps if the roots are not both maintained and contained. Many attempt to double or triple pot them before sinking them into the ground in hopes of keeping them small and manageable, and this can work if the roots do as directed by the pots. The general rule, however, is that you may want to put your umbrella plant in a place where you need it to spread and flourish.
Another positive aspect of the umbrella plant family is that they are generally considered as pest free. Bugs and insects don’t seem to go after them very often, giving the larger species a long and healthy outlook. There are a few dwarf umbrellas that are consistently attacked and munched on down to the quick, but most of these recover and prosper once the pest has been removed. If you have a dwarf umbrella plant who has been nibbled beyond recognition you might try grooming it for pests by hand, as the plant may not survive harsh pesticide applications while in this condition, and bringing it indoors to a sunny spot until it recovers.
The most prominent of the umbrella plant family is the actual umbrella tree, and this can be found speckled about in the warmer regions of the United States, closer to the gulf areas. The papyrus and the cyperus will normally obtain a height of 4 to 6 feet and can both be commonly found in yards and in the wilds alike. Podophyllum is the scientific name for the American Mayapple tree, and this beautiful specimen is also called an umbrella plant.
Harper’s umbrella plant, or Harper’s buckwheat, is another beautiful and popular North American version of these shade giving varieties. Indian rhubarb is quite easy to grow and can be a stunning addition to any landscaping venture. When planted as a hedge row toward the outskirts of your yard, they can create an easy to maneuver perimeter guard for mowing and other yard maintenance. Whichever type of umbrella plant you choose to experiment with and nurture, be sure to speak with your grower or greenhouse about how to gain the very best results when planting for home or garden.