Contents
Description
Scirpus Cyperinus, commonly known as woolgrass, is a perennial sedge that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. This plant is native to the eastern United States and Canada, where it grows in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of ponds and streams. Woolgrass can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a distinctive triangular stem that is green in color. The leaves are long and narrow, with a rough texture on the top and a smooth texture on the bottom. In late summer, woolgrass produces small, brownish flowers in clusters at the tips of the stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Scirpus |
Appearance
Woolgrass has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. The triangular stem is sturdy and can stand up to strong winds and heavy rain. The leaves are long and narrow, with a rough texture on the top and a smooth texture on the bottom. The plant also produces small, brownish flowers in late summer that are arranged in clusters at the tips of the stems.
Care Guide
Woolgrass is relatively easy to care for, but it does require specific growing conditions. Here are some tips for growing woolgrass:
Water: Woolgrass prefers moist soil and can tolerate standing water. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Woolgrass doesn’t require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.
Soil: Woolgrass prefers acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be well-draining but able to hold moisture.
Sunlight: Woolgrass prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.
Hardiness Zones: Woolgrass is hardy in USDA Zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Woolgrass is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust, a fungal disease that causes orange or brown spots on the leaves. To prevent rust, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves.
Habitat
Woolgrass is native to the eastern United States and Canada, where it grows in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of ponds and streams. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate standing water. Woolgrass is an important plant for wetland ecosystems, as it provides habitat for many species of birds and insects.
Question and Answer
Q: Can woolgrass be grown in containers?
A: Yes, woolgrass can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is kept moist.
Q: How often should woolgrass be watered?
A: Woolgrass prefers moist soil and can tolerate standing water. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: How tall does woolgrass grow?
A: Woolgrass can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Q: Is woolgrass invasive?
A: Woolgrass is not considered invasive, but it can spread quickly in ideal growing conditions.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to woolgrass:
- Carex
- Eriophorum
- Juncus
- Schoenoplectus
References
- USDA Plants Database. (2021). Scirpus cyperinus (L.) Kunth. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=SCCY2
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Scirpus cyperinus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279029&isprofile=0&
- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Scirpus cyperinus (Woolgrass). Retrieved from https://www.botany.wisc.edu/wisflora/flora_details.php?flora_id=12&taxon_id=279029
