In 2026, we’re celebrating tall cottongrass (Eriophorum angustifolium) as our Alaska native plant of the year. Tall cottongrass is one of 13 species in the Eriophorum genus, and the Flora of North America recognizes two subspecies – E. angustifolium spp. angustifolium, and E. angustifolium spp. triste. Both subspecies are present in Alaska.
Learn more about E. angustifolium and its subspecies in this essay by UAF research scientist and Alaska Native Plant Society member Martha Raynolds.
Drawing courtesy Amanda Reimer
2026 Native Plant of the Year shirts available now! (Link to store)