Sheuchzer's Cotton-grass
eriophorum scheuchzeri
Also known as: ["Cotton-grass","Arctic Cotton-grass"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Arctic and alpine regions, known for its fluffy, cotton-like inflorescences.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Genus: | Eriophorum |
| Botanical Name: | Eriophorum scheuchzeri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: bog garden or water garden edge
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−15–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moist but well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Moist, acidic, peat-rich soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower stalks.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun, with 4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light per day. Adjust based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. For indoor placement, provide bright indirect light; outdoors, protect from intense midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
moist, acidic peat or bog soil
pH: Acidic, pH 4.5–6.0.
Maintain consistent moisture; avoid alkaline amendments; ensure good aeration.
Temperature
Cool to cold temperatures, ideally between 5–15°C (41–59°F). Tolerates frost but prefers cooler conditions, especially during dormancy.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from sudden cold snaps; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation. Division is more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes into sections with roots.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity for seeds.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins or late summer after flowering.
Environment
Cool temperatures (10–15°C), high humidity, and partial shade for seedlings.
Medium
Peat-based mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seed propagation.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 4–8 weeks, establishment in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, peat moss, perlite, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Divide only healthy rhizomes; keep seedlings consistently moist; avoid direct sunlight during establishment.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves or stalks at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid cutting healthy growth; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid overhead watering; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water deeply to encourage deep root growth, and allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth in spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or leaf mold to improve moisture retention and acidity; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes but are generally tolerated. Prolonged freezing without protection can damage roots and foliage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in severe cold; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or premature dormancy, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure drainage; avoid fertilizing during heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriophorum scheuchzeri is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicEriophorum scheuchzeri is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicEriophorum scheuchzeri is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eriophorum scheuchzeri toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where does Sheuchzer's Cotton-grass grow naturally?
A: It is native to Arctic and alpine regions.
Q: What are the common problems with this plant?
A: Yellow leaves and wilting are common issues.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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