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Friday, May 31, 2024

Cottongrass, Eriophorum

Cottongrass, also known as Eriophorum, is a type of plant that grows in wet areas like bogs. They are named for their fluffy, white seed heads that resemble cotton.

Appearance: Cottongrass has tall, thin stems and grass-like leaves. The cottony tufts appear after the plant flowers.
Habitat: They thrive in cold, wet places like the Arctic tundra, but can also be found in other parts of the Northern Hemisphere.
Ecological Importance: Cottongrass helps to stabilize the soil in wetlands, preventing erosion. They also provide food and shelter for wildlife.
Historical Uses: People used the cottony fluff for insulation, stuffing, and even as a substitute for cotton.

Conservation: Some types of cottongrass are threatened by habitat loss and pollution, so efforts are underway to protect them.

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