Hare's-tail Cottongrass
eriophorum vaginatum
Also known as: ["Cottongrass","Hare's-tail Sedge"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to cold temperate regions, known for its fluffy white inflorescences resembling cotton.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Genus: | Eriophorum |
| Botanical Name: | Eriophorum vaginatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: bog gardens, wet meadows, or containers with constant moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"1–7"}
- 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; well-draining but water-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak summer heat; protect from harsh winds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid intense midday sun; provide dappled light in hot climates; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Maintain consistent soil moisture; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency with seasons.
Soil
acidic, peaty, moist but well-drained
pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–6.0).
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially at night.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize lightly to avoid burning; water before applying fertilizer; stop in winter to prevent nutrient buildup.
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
Warm, humid conditions (60–70°F or 15–21°C); indirect light for seeds; partial shade for divisions.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage; can also propagate in water initially.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seed germination to improve success rate.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: 2–4 weeks for germination, 6–12 months to mature.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, pruning shears, pots, peat moss, perlite, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Divide every 2–3 years to maintain vigor; use fresh seeds for best germination; keep seedlings moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Hand-pull dead stems or use clean, sharp scissors to cut back to the base.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; sterilize tools; avoid cutting healthy growth; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without pooling; water early in the day to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or leaf mold to improve moisture retention and acidity; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips due to heat stress; cold damage may cause leaf necrosis or dieback.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause root damage if below freezing; frost can damage foliage.
Solution: Protect with mulch or frost cloth; avoid planting in frost-prone areas; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; water before and after fertilizing; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriophorum vaginatum is not toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity or adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEriophorum vaginatum is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity or adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEriophorum vaginatum, commonly known as Hare's-tail Cottongrass, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eriophorum vaginatum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where does Hare's-tail Cottongrass grow naturally?
A: It is native to cold temperate regions, particularly in bogs and wetlands.
Q: What are the common issues with growing this plant?
A: Common problems include yellow leaves, wilting, and rotting, often due to improper moisture levels.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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