Alpine bulrush
Trichophorum alpinum · Cyperaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant alpine bulrush: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, fine and filamentous
- Flowering
- June to August, white or light beige spikelets
- Adult size
- 20–40 cm in height
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (−20 °C and below)
- Origin
- Alpine and subarctic zones of Eurasia
- Soil type
- Acidic, poor, well-drained, moist during growing season
Care
Watering
Alpine cottongrass appreciates regular moisture during spring and summer growth. In mountain or cool climates, moderate watering is sufficient. Reduce in winter. Avoid completely drying out the soil, but prevent waterlogging.
Light exposure
Place it in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates windy mountain areas very well. Bright exposure promotes a more compact habit and optimal foliage colour.
Soil and planting
Prefer acidic, nutrient-poor, well-drained soil that retains moisture. Add sand or gravel if drainage is inadequate. This Cyperaceae enjoys peaty or granitic substrates typical of alpine zones.
Pruning and cleaning
No mandatory pruning. In late winter, you can remove dried old foliage to encourage new growth. A soft comb allows you to clean the clumps without damaging the fine stems.
Fertilising
This alpine plant thrives naturally in poor soils. A very light application of well-decomposed compost in spring is more than enough. Avoid overly rich fertilisers that would upset its ecological balance.
Health and pests
Alpine cottongrass is relatively unaffected by diseases and pests in appropriate alpine conditions. Poor drainage can promote root rot. Ensure good air circulation and well-drained soil to prevent any fungal issues.
Did you know?
The common name 'cottongrass' refers to the soft, silky appearance of its white flower heads that, in the mountains, sway gently in the wind like fine hair. Historically, northern populations used the tussocks of these plants to line their shoes, as they grow abundantly in tundra and provided both insulation and lightness.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Blue sedgeCarex panicea
- Spring sedgeCarex caryophyllea
- Pendulous sedgeCarex pendula
- Bird's-foot SedgeCarex ornithopoda
- Gray's sedgeCarex grayi
- Strict sedgeCarex stricta
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.