Field Marks: Cottonsedges are distinguished by their
cottony fruiting heads. Narrowleaved cottonsedge has several
heads per plant, flat leaves, and merely pointed scales.
Habitat: Bogs.
Habit: Perennial herb.
Stems: Erect, stiff, smooth, somewhat triangular, up
to 2 feet tall.
Leaves: Long, narrow, flat, rough along the edges, up
to 1/6 inch broad.
Flowers: 1 per spikelet, with many spikelets forming
a head and several heads per plant; scales ovate-lanceolate,
pointed, green or brown; bristles numerous, white, appearing
cottony, up to 1 inch long.
Sepals: 0.
Petals: 0.
Stamens: Usually 3.
Pistils: 1; styles 3; ovary superior.
Fruits: Achenes obovoid, pale brown, 1/10-1/6 inch
long.