Tawny cottongrass (Eriophorum virginicum) is a winter-hardy perennial sedge that is often found in wet, peaty soils. Its foliage is an important food source for various animals, including moose, bears, deer, and geese. Tawny cottongrass’ fluffy seeds give it its name and are part of the diet of tree sparrows in northern boreal forests.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Eriophorum vaginatum, the hare’s-tail cottongrass, tussock cottongrass, or sheathed cottonsedge, is a species of perennial herbaceous flowering plant in the sedge family Cyperaceae. It is native to bogs and other acidic wetlands throughout the Holarctic Kingdom.
Eriophorum vaginatum is a 30– to 60-cm-high tussock-forming plant with extremely narrow, almost hair-like leaves. On the flowering stems there is a single, inflated leaf-sheath, without a lamina, hence the species epithet (“sheath” is “vagina” in latin). The inflorescence is a dense, tufted, solitary spike.
The fruit of tawny cottongrass can be characterized by its petite stature, with each seed typically not exceeding 0.16 inches (4 mm) in length. These small fruits bear a resemblance to tiny grains. Upon maturity, they may exhibit a brownish hue, consistent with many seeds in their readiness to disseminate. Their surface is likely to be smooth to the touch, a common trait facilitating dispersal by wind or water. The size and form of the fruits are among the distinguishable features aiding in the identification of tawny cottongrass.
Eriophorum vaginatum occurs throughout much of the boreal and arctic zones of Eurasia and North America. It prefers acidic, moist to wet, peaty soil and may be dominant in bogs, poor fens and the heathlands of Western Europe. It is also common on the tundra. Common in Scotland, it is sometimes referred to as draw-ling or drawmoss.
II. How to Grow and Care
Tawny cottongrass is a wetland plant requiring consistently moist soil and full to partial sunlight to thrive. Special care points include managing a wet or boggy environment without letting the soil become waterlogged, which can cause root rot. Maintenance of moisture levels, especially during dry spells, is crucial for tawny cottongrass due to its natural habitat preferences.
Sunlight
Tawny cottongrass thrives best under full sun conditions, benefitting from long hours of direct sunlight to promote its growth and health. While tawny cottongrass tolerates partial sun, extended periods in lower light levels may result in suboptimal growth, potentially leading to sparser foliage and a less vigorous display of its characteristic tawny-colored cotton-like tufts. Adaptations to varying light include the plant’s ability to adjust the angle of its leaves to maximize light absorption.
When grown outdoors, tawny cottongrass prefers exposed planting sites that receive unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. It’s important to position tawny cottongrass in open areas rather than shaded landscapes to ensure it receives the intense light it needs for optimal development.
Watering
Tawny cottongrass is a plant that thrives in areas with high humidity, often found in its native habitat of wetlands and marshes. Its water habits are balanced, showing no particular preference for drought or excessive moisture. It requires watering every week to maintain optimal growth. As an herbaceous perennial, tawny cottongrass has a unique adaptation to waterlogged conditions during its growing season, demonstrating its remarkable resilience and adaptability.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing tawny cottongrass with organic mulch or compost annually supports its health and flowering. Apply a thin layer to enrich the soil without overwhelming tawny cottongrass. Benefits include improved nutrition, optimal growth, and a robust root system. Seasonally, spring fertilization kickstarts growth after winter dormancy. When applying, distribute evenly, avoid direct contact with stems to prevent rot, and water thoroughly after application to aid nutrient absorption. Gardeners of all skill levels will appreciate the vitality that considered fertilization affords tawny cottongrass.
Propagation
Tawny cottongrass is adept at self-propagation in suitable habitats, generally requiring little human intervention. For cultivation purposes, division is the most effective method. To propagate tawny cottongrass, carefully separate the clumps, ensuring each has sufficient roots and foliage. Replant these divisions in moist soil, mimicking the plant’s natural boggy or wetland conditions, to encourage successful establishment and growth.
Transplanting
The best time to transplant tawny cottongrass is during the cusp of mid to late spring, owing to the moderate temperatures and beneficial soil conditions. Choose a space with ample moisture and partial sun. Ensure gentle handling to keep the delicate roots intact.
