Cyperus zumula Seeds | Cat Grass
LATIN NAME: Cyperus zumula
COMMON NAME: Cat Grass
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Cat Grass, Cyperus zumula is a grass in the sedge family. Cat grass umbrellas dense clumps of soft, narrow, arching leaves with slender stems and small, radiating umbrellas of grass-like foliage, the whole plant growing into the lush, fountain-like mound. Fresh, green leaves stay soft and tender, and they sprout fast from the crown. It makes perfect windowsill and pet-garden plant. Few species give back so generously for so little effort.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the sedge family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. In sedge family, fast-growing forms have a recognised place in studies of indoor plants and pet-friendly foliage, and cat grass appears in research on leaf chemistry and wet-root growth. For researchers, plants like this one offer practical material for propagation studies and selection work.
Uses & Benefits
Cat Grass works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. On bright windowsill, cat grass sprouts fast and keeps pets happy. Soft, tender leaves help cats with digestion and hairballs, fountain-like clumps give room fresh, living green, and plant grows fast in moist, rich soil with shade from hot noon. Easy, generous and quick to please. Once it has its roots down, it more or less looks after itself.
Nutgrass rhizome, Xiang Fu, is Chinese medicine’s foremost qi-regulating herb for women’s comfort and digestion, and its relative is the edible tigernut of horchata; cyperus essential oil is studied for calming and antimicrobial activity.
Growing from Seed
Starting Cat Grass from seed is simple and satisfying. Broadcast the seed thinly over a fine, free-draining compost, sieve a little more compost on top, and water with a fine rose. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
Cat Grass is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. It is generous with beginners and their occasional misjudgements.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Cat Grass often pair it with these related subjects: