Is there a way to replant papyrus after the winter?

Question

I live in growing region 6a, at very high altitude, in a low-precipitation area, with random snowfall and freezes happening until June 1, but freezes being mild (around 15 degrees F) and short-lasting. Experience gardeners (which I am not) claim it is difficult to grow in this area. Nearly everything I planted failed or wilted. The one plant that has grown successful has been papyrus (Cyperus percamenthus), which have grown to 4 ft tall. They are grown in the shallow region of a pond, fertilized by goldfish. As such, I want to grow more.

It is difficult to purchase these plants in my area, but next spring, I'd expand from growing just 2 of these to 50-100 plants (as many as is possible). That would cost upwards of $1000 if I purchased the plants, not to mention the supply just isn't available, so I want to try to replant from these two that I have.

I read they likely won't regrow after winter. I can't find anything resembling seeds on these plants. Is there some part I can harvest or cut, keep over the winter, and replant in June, so that I can have a multitude of these plants next year?

Answer 1

In zone 8 Cyprus papyrus, will die back to some degree each winter depending on temperature. But it always comes back vigorously and is invasive here. Acorus is a more cold hardy bog plant . It is very easy ( aka invasive) here; if you want something to try. Acorus is often variegated color and gets about one foot tall.