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White cottongrass

Eriophorum scheuchzeri · Cyperaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant white cottongrass: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Family
Cyperaceae (Sedges)
Foliage
Deciduous, herbaceous
Flowering
June to August
Adult size
30 to 60 cm tall
Growth
Slow to moderate
Hardiness
Very hardy (-20 °C and below)
Origin
Arctic and alpine regions of Europe and Asia
Soil type
Peaty, moist, acidic

Care

Light exposure

Scheuchzer's cottongrass prefers sunny to partially shaded locations. It tolerates variable light depending on local conditions, but develops best with direct sun access for at least 4 to 6 hours per day. In very hot climates, afternoon partial shade can be beneficial.

Watering and humidity

This plant requires constantly moist, even wet soil: it thrives in peat bogs, marshes, or wetland edges. Keep the substrate moist at all times during the growing season. In winter, maintain some moisture but reduce watering slightly.

Soil and substrate

Rich organic matter, peaty or silty-clay soil with an acidic to neutral reaction is essential. Improve your potting mix with peat or bark-based compost. Drainage should not dry out the soil: the goal is to maintain constant moisture.

Pruning and cleanup

Remove dead or faded leaves in early spring before growth resumes. No strict pruning needed: this grass should keep its natural form. Remove dry flower heads in autumn if you wish for a neater appearance.

Fertilizing

Minimal fertilization is sufficient: apply balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich fertilizer in spring. Avoid excess, as this plant naturally grows in poor soils. Annual applications of decomposed compost effectively replace chemical fertilizers.

Diseases and pests

Cottongrasses are generally very resistant to diseases and pests. Prolonged excess moisture combined with poor air circulation can promote fungal rot: optimize air circulation in those cases. No specific treatment is normally necessary under natural conditions.

Did you know?

The fluffy white flower heads of cottongrass were long used as filling material in Arctic and alpine dwellings. Its genus Eriophorum comes from the Greek "erion" (wool) and "phorein" (to carry), evoking this plant "wool" that detaches at maturity and disperses in the wind like down, allowing seeds to travel for kilometers.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.