Eriophorum gracile, commonly known as Slender Cottongrass, is a perennial herb that is part of the sedge family and is native to the cool temperate and arctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It thrives in wetland habitats such as bogs, fens, and wet meadows, where it forms extensive colonies through vegetative spread via rhizomes. Slender Cottongrass typically reaches 12-24 inches in height and is characterized by its delicate, fluffy white inflorescences that appear in late spring to early summer, resembling tufts of cotton. These distinctive seed heads are not only visually appealing but also provide insulation for the seeds.

In cultivation, Slender Cottongrass is valued for its unique texture and form, which can add interest to water gardens, bog gardens, and other moist, naturalistic settings. It prefers full sun to part shade and requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions. While it is not commonly used in traditional garden settings due to its specific habitat requirements, it can be a striking addition to specialized plantings. Gardeners should be aware that in ideal conditions, it can spread vigorously, potentially becoming invasive. It is, however, relatively low maintenance and can be a beneficial plant for supporting wetland ecosystems and wildlife.CC BY-SA 4.0