About
A native sedge, found in scattered sites across the British Isles. Clusters of yellowish flowerheads are followed by tassel-like, cottonwool seedheads. Spreads through rhizomes producing loose tufts of relatively broad leaves on triangular stems.
About the genus
Eriophorum are evergreen rhizomatous perennials forming spreading clumps of tufted, linear leaves, with solitary or clustered, ovoid black-scaled, silky-haired flower-heads, followed by conspicuous cottony white fruiting heads
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Bogs, Grass Like
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow
Care notes
CultivationOccurs in wet, alkaline soils such as lowland fens and marshes. Suitable for pond edges, bog gardens and other neutral to alkaline soils that are permanently wet
PruningNo pruning required, but deadheading can prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division of rhizomes
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free