Eriophorum gracile is a species of flowering plant in the sedge family, Cyperaceae. It is known by the common name slender cottongrass, or slender cottonsedge. Eriophorum gracile is a plant with circumboreal distribution, extending south into mountain ranges of the Northern Hemisphere. It grows in wet areas such as bogs. Eriophorum gracile is a thin, tall perennial herb with a slender, rounded, solid, mostly naked stem reaching 30 to 60 centimeters in height. It produces a fluffy inflorescence atop its stem with a wispy, cottony white flower. The plants grow in colonies, often spreading vegetatively by rhizome.
Slender cotton-grass is resistant to disease and is generally not susceptible to diseases. As for care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. Planted outdoors, it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have bloomed. Slender cotton-grass is suitable for anyone with an outdoor space, such as a garden or deck, and does not require much care experience.
How to keep Eriophorum Gracile.
Light
Slender cotton-grass is a herbaceous perennial that favors sunny sites and is native to open habitats, frequently occurring in meadows and grasslands. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial sun.
Temperature
Slender cotton-grass can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its distribution may still be restricted by different combinations of water and heat. It grows best in warm summer climates with sufficient rainfall or watering. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather and prolonged high temperatures can raise the chance of Slender cotton-grass dying. In winter, proper protection from cold can increase the plant's survival rate.
Fertilizer
Slender cotton-grass needs extra nutrients to encourage healthy new growth. In spring, spreading some compost around the plant’s base will effectively supply the nutrition it requires. Fertilizing helps promote vigorous growth and enhances the plant’s resistance to diseases and pests.
Pruning
Slender cotton-grass thrives in moist, acidic soils and is known for its fluffy white seed heads. Pruning in early spring, which means cutting back the old stalks to the base, encourages healthy growth. This practice not only reduces the risk of disease but also enhances the plant's vigor and aesthetic appeal throughout the growing season.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Grass
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Eriophorum
- Family
- Cyperaceae
- Mature Height
- 20 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Bloom Time
- Spring, Summer
Other names.
