Tawny Cottongrass
Eriophorum virginicum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CT, IL, IN, KY and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Tawny cottongrass is a native sedge that produces distinctive fluffy, cotton-like seed heads in summer. This wetland plant thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and forms small clumps of narrow green foliage. The showy seed heads emerge after small summer flowers and persist into fall, adding textural interest to rain gardens and pond edges.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tawny Cottongrass takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet soil conditions
- Fluffy seed heads may appear unkempt to some
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. The seeds provide food for waterfowl and wetland birds, while the dense growth offers cover for small wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Tawny Cottongrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.