Eriophorumsoorten

Eriophorumsoorten, commonly known as cotton grass, are a genus of perennial herbs belonging to the family Cyperaceae. The genus is characterized by its distinctive fluffy white or brownish inflorescences, which resemble tufts of cotton. These inflorescences are not true flowers but rather a cluster of delicate bristles that elongate after flowering, giving the plant its characteristic appearance. Cotton grass species are typically found in wet, boggy environments such as peatlands, fens, and marshes, and are often indicators of acidic soils.

There are approximately 25-30 recognized species within the Eriophorum genus, distributed across temperate and boreal regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Some common species include Eriophorum vaginatum, known as sheathed cotton grass, and Eriophorum angustifolium, or common cottongrass. These plants play an important ecological role in their habitats, providing food and shelter for various invertebrates and small mammals. The fluffy seed heads are dispersed by wind. While not widely cultivated, cotton grass is sometimes used in naturalistic garden designs for its unique aesthetic appeal in damp areas. Their presence is often indicative of undisturbed wetland ecosystems.