Papyrus

Papyrus, Cyperus papyrus, is a species of flowering aquatic plants native to wet regions of Africa. It grows in full sun, in flooded swamps, but can also tolerate drought after being established. This plant has a very long history of use by humans, notably by the Ancient Egyptians (papyrus paper). Parts of the plant can be eaten, and the highly buoyant stems can be made into boats. It is now often cultivated as an ornamental plant.