Tussock Cotton-grass
Eriophorum vaginatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CT, IN, MA, ME and 9 more states
Tussock cotton-grass forms compact, evergreen clumps with narrow leaves and distinctive white, cotton-like seed heads that appear in late spring through summer. This native sedge thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and partial shade conditions. The fluffy seed heads create an attractive textural element in the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tussock Cotton-grass takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet soil conditions that may be difficult to maintain
- Cotton-like seed heads may appear weedy to traditional landscaping preferences
- Growth habit may look unkempt compared to conventional ornamental grasses
Wildlife value
The seed heads provide nesting material for birds, and the plant offers habitat for wetland-associated insects. While not a major pollinator plant, it supports the broader wetland ecosystem.
Common questions
- How much sun does Tussock Cotton-grass need?
- Tussock Cotton-grass grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Tussock Cotton-grass bloom?
- Tussock Cotton-grass blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Tussock Cotton-grass native?
- Tussock Cotton-grass (Eriophorum vaginatum) is native to CT, IN, MA, ME and 9 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Tussock Cotton-grass HOA-friendly?
- Tussock Cotton-grass takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Tussock Cotton-grass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz