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Description
Eriophorum Virginicum, commonly known as tawny cottongrass or tawny bog sedge, is a native North American grass-like plant that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is a perennial herb that typically grows in wetland habitats like bogs, fens, and marshes. Eriophorum Virginicum is known for its unique cotton-like flowers that appear in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Eriophorum |
Appearance
Eriophorum Virginicum grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has narrow, grass-like leaves that are usually 20-60 cm long and 2-8 mm wide. The plant produces unique cotton-like flowers that are light brown to tawny in color. The flowers are borne in clusters at the ends of long stalks, and each cluster contains up to 50 flowers. The flowers eventually turn into fluffy white seed heads that are dispersed by the wind. The plant’s roots are fibrous and form clumps that help stabilize the soil in wetland habitats.
Care Guide
Eriophorum Virginicum thrives in wetland habitats like bogs, fens, and marshes. However, it can also be grown in gardens with similar conditions. Here are some care tips for growing Eriophorum Virginicum:
Water: Eriophorum Virginicum requires consistently moist soil. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Eriophorum Virginicum does not require additional fertilization.
Soil: Eriophorum Virginicum prefers acidic, nutrient-poor soils. If planting in a garden, amend the soil with peat moss or compost to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Eriophorum Virginicum prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Eriophorum Virginicum is hardy in USDA Zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriophorum Virginicum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Habitat
Eriophorum Virginicum is native to North America and is typically found in wetland habitats like bogs, fens, and marshes. It can also be found in disturbed wetlands like ditches and the edges of ponds. Eriophorum Virginicum plays an important role in wetland ecosystems by stabilizing the soil and providing habitat for wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eriophorum Virginicum be grown in a garden?
A: Yes, Eriophorum Virginicum can be grown in a garden with similar conditions to its natural habitat.
Q: What is the plant’s hardiness zone?
A: Eriophorum Virginicum is hardy in USDA Zones 3-9.
Q: Does Eriophorum Virginicum require fertilizer?
A: No, Eriophorum Virginicum does not require additional fertilizer.
Q: What is the plant’s natural habitat?
A: Eriophorum Virginicum is native to North America and is typically found in wetland habitats like bogs, fens, and marshes.
Related Plants
- Eriophorum Angustifolium
- Eriophorum Chamissonis
- Eriophorum Scheuchzeri
- Eriophorum Tenellum
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Eriophorum virginicum. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287103&isprofile=0&basic=Eriophorum%20vir
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Eriophorum virginicum. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/eriophorum-virginicum/
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Tawny cottongrass. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ERVI5
