Adirondack Wetlands: Barnum Bog at the Paul Smiths VIC

Adirondack Wildflowers:
Cotton Grass (Eriophorum)

Adirondack Wildflowers: Cotton Grass in Bloom in the Barnum Bog (26 May 2012)Adirondack Wildflowers: Cotton Grass in Bloom in the Barnum Bog (26 May 2012)

This page is no longer being updated.  For an updated and expanded version of this material, see: Cottongrass (Eriophorum spp.).

Cotton Grass (also called Bog Cotton) is not a grass, but a member of the sedge family. There are 25 species of this plant, which grows mainly in cool temperate, alpine, and arctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere. In the Adirondacks, there are reportedly two species -- one which blooms in spring (May-June) and another which blooms later in the summer. Cotton Grass may be seen at the Paul Smiths VIC in Barnum Bog, along the Boreal Life Trail boardwalk. The early-blooming variety usually begins blooming in May.

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Explore the VIC

The Paul Smiths VIC offers a wide variety of programs throughout the year to educate and inform Adirondack Park residents and visitors about the natural wonders of the Adirondack Mountains. You can help support these programs by joining the Friends of the VIC. More information on Friends of the VIC memberships

Explore the Trails

The VIC trails are free and open to the public, from dawn to dusk, spring through fall. In winter, the trails are open to cross-country skiers and snowshoers for a fee. Day or season passes may be purchased.