cottongrasses

Cottongrasses are perennial herbaceous plants belonging to the genus Eriophorum, part of the sedge family Cyperaceae. These plants are characterized by their distinctive fluffy, cotton-like tufts that develop from the flower heads, which are actually clusters of long, hair-like bristles called perianth bristles. These bristles elongate and become prominent after flowering, giving the plant its characteristic appearance, especially when mature and windblown.

The genus Eriophorum is found in cooler climates worldwide, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere. They are commonly found in wet, boggy, and acidic environments such as moorlands, peat bogs, fens, and tundra. Cottongrasses are important components of these ecosystems, often forming dense stands and playing a role in soil stabilization and nutrient cycling.

There are numerous species of cottongrass, with variations in size, habitat preference, and the appearance of their cottony tufts. Some common species include Eriophorum vaginatum, known for its dense tussocks, and Eriophorum angustifolium, which often grows in wetter areas and can spread more widely. The seed dispersal mechanism relies on the wind carrying the fluffy structures, aiding in their spread across suitable habitats. Despite the common name, cottongrasses are not grasses but sedges, distinguishable by their triangular stems and generally unbranched flower stalks.