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Description
Gnaphalium uliginosum, commonly known as marsh cudweed or low cudweed, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, bogs, and other moist areas. This plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gnaphalium |
Appearance
Gnaphalium uliginosum grows up to 2 feet tall and produces small white or pink flowers from June to September. The leaves are narrow and elongated, measuring up to 3 inches long and 1/4 inch wide. The stems are usually covered in fine hairs, and the plant has a somewhat woolly appearance.
Care Guide
Gnaphalium uliginosum requires moist soil and partial to full sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7. It does not require regular fertilization but benefits from a light application of compost in early spring. This plant is relatively low-maintenance and does not require frequent watering, but it should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gnaphalium uliginosum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in overly humid conditions. To prevent this, provide adequate air circulation and avoid watering the leaves.
Habitat
Gnaphalium uliginosum is typically found in wetlands, bogs, marshes, and other moist areas. It can tolerate standing water and is commonly found growing alongside sedges, rushes, and other wetland plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gnaphalium uliginosum poisonous?
A: No, this plant is not known to be toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Gnaphalium uliginosum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, but it may require more frequent watering than when grown in the ground.
Q: How often should Gnaphalium uliginosum be fertilized?
A: This plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of compost in early spring can be beneficial.
Q: Can Gnaphalium uliginosum tolerate drought conditions?
A: No, this plant requires consistently moist soil and should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Related Plants
- Gnaphalium elegans
- Gnaphalium polycaulon
- Gnaphalium purpureum
References
- “Gnaphalium uliginosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 5 June 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c188>.
- “Gnaphalium uliginosum.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 5 June 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=GNUL2>.
- “Gnaphalium uliginosum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 5 June 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=GNUL2>.
