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Description
Eriophorum Angustifolium, commonly known as narrow-leaved cotton grass or tussock cottongrass, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the northern hemisphere. It belongs to the family Cyperaceae and is known for its distinctive white cottony seed heads. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and prefers wet, acidic soil.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Eriophorum |
Appearance
Eriophorum Angustifolium has narrow leaves that can grow up to 30 cm in length and 2-3 mm in width. The leaves are dark green in color and grow in a tufted arrangement. The stem is slender and can grow up to 60 cm in height. The plant produces a single inflorescence, which is a white cottony seed head that can be up to 5 cm in diameter. The seed head contains numerous small seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
Eriophorum Angustifolium prefers wet, acidic soil and full sun to partial shade. It can be grown in hardiness zones 2-7. The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. It does not require fertilization, as it obtains its nutrients from the soil. The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriophorum Angustifolium is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and rust. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and by avoiding overhead watering. The plant is not known to attract any significant pests.
Habitat
Eriophorum Angustifolium is native to the northern hemisphere and can be found in wetlands, bogs, and other moist habitats. It is commonly found in the Arctic and subarctic regions, as well as in northern Europe and Asia. The plant is an important food source for herbivores such as reindeer and muskoxen.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eriophorum Angustifolium grow in full shade?
A: No, Eriophorum Angustifolium requires full sun to partial shade to grow properly.
Q: How often should I water Eriophorum Angustifolium?
A: Eriophorum Angustifolium should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: Can Eriophorum Angustifolium be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Eriophorum Angustifolium can be grown in a container as long as it is kept moist and receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Is Eriophorum Angustifolium a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Eriophorum Angustifolium has a fibrous root system that can help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Related Plants
- Eriophorum Scheuchzeri
- Eriophorum Vaginatum
- Eriophorum Latifolium
References
- USDA Plants Database: Eriophorum angustifolium
- Flora of North America: Eriophorum angustifolium
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Eriophorum angustifolium
