Cottongrass

eriophorum angustifolium

Also known as: ["Bog Cotton","Cotton Grass"]

Family: Cyperaceae Genus: Eriophorum Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to northern regions, known for its fluffy white inflorescences resembling cotton.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Poales
Family: Cyperaceae
Genus: Eriophorum
Botanical Name: Eriophorum angustifolium

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: bog gardens, wet meadows, or containers with constant moisture
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−40–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"2–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
  • Soil Type: Moist, acidic, peaty soil with good organic content.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adaptable to varying light conditions.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage); browning tips (underwatering or low humidity).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; monitor for sunburn.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; water less in dormant periods.

Soil

moist, acidic, peaty soil

pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–6.0).

Keep soil consistently moist; avoid heavy clay soils; enrich with organic matter annually.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates cold but sensitive to extreme heat.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize less in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.

Propagation

Methods

Division or seed; division is faster and more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Divide clumps into sections with roots.
  2. Replant immediately.
  3. Water thoroughly.
  4. Or sow seeds shallowly and keep moist.

Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light for seeds; division requires minimal care post-separation.

Medium

Peat-based mix with added perlite for drainage.

Hormone

Not necessary for division; optional for seeds to improve germination.

Timeline

Division: immediate establishment; seeds: 2–4 weeks for germination, 6–12 months to mature.

Tools Needed

Garden knife, trowel, pots, peat moss, perlite.

Quick Tips

Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; use fresh seeds for best germination.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back old growth at the base; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove debris; water after pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to avoid disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add peat moss or compost to retain moisture; incorporate perlite for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in heat; browning leaf tips in cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; roots can become damaged in freezing conditions.

Solution: Insulate roots with mulch; protect from frost; move potted plants indoors during freezes.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; water before application; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall).

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Eriophorum angustifolium may indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen, or stress due to environmental factors such as waterlogging or excessive sunlight.

Wilting in Eriophorum angustifolium is typically a response to water stress, either due to drought conditions or root damage that impairs water uptake.

Leaf spots on Eriophorum angustifolium are uncommon but may be caused by fungal pathogens, leading to necrotic lesions that can impair photosynthesis and weaken the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Eriophorum angustifolium is often associated with prolonged waterlogging or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Eriophorum angustifolium is not toxic to cats. It does not pose any known health risks to felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are necessary for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Eriophorum angustifolium is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity or adverse effects in canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are necessary for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Eriophorum angustifolium, commonly known as narrow-leaved cotton grass, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are necessary for handling or growing this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cottongrass toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Where does Cottongrass grow best?

A: It thrives in moist, acidic soils, often in boggy or wetland areas.

Q: Does Cottongrass have any medicinal uses?

A: Traditionally, it has been used for wound dressing due to its absorbent properties, but no significant medicinal use is widely recognized today.

Quick Reference
Family: Cyperaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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