Species marsh cudweed

marsh cudweed

Gnaphalium uliginosum

Marsh cudweed (Gnaphalium uliginosum) is an herbaceous, perennial plant found in wet, marshy areas such as riverbeds, ditches, moist meadows, and fens. Its distinguishing feature is the lacy, star-like white flowers which bloom in summer. It also has a smooth, hairless stem and narrow leaves that grow in clusters. Marsh cudweed is truer to its name than other species: as its round, puffy ‘cupping’ fruits swell in wet conditions, they look very similar to dandelion flowers. However, unlike dandelions, its flowers will not develop into sizable seedheads.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Root Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

2

Flowers:

Not showy, Yellow Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Fruits:

Fruits In Summer Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

High

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Marsh cudweed (Gnaphalium uliginosum) has a low watering requirement and doesn't like to be watered too frequently. It should be watered deeply and evenly around the base of the plant once every 2 weeks during the growing season. During the hotter areas of the year, water should be increased to twice a week. Reduce the amount of water during cooler winter months and water only when the soil is dry in the upper layers.

sunlight

Marsh cudweed requires full sun for optimal growth. They can tolerate partial shade but will not grow as vigorously as with full sun. During the growing season, when the plant is actively photosynthesizing, the recommended exposure is 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. During the winter months, 4-6 hours of sunlight is ideal.

pruning

Marsh cudweed should be pruned once a year in late summer or early fall, at the end of the flowering period. Pruning should involve removing dead and unhealthy stems, thinning overly dense growth, and making sure the plant has an overall pleasing shape. It is best to prune back no more than 1/3 of the total foliage, ensuring the plant is not over pruned or weakened in any way. All pruned material should be discarded and not recycled back into the garden.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Marsh cudweed typically starts flowering in June.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting of Gnaphalium uliginosum typically begins in July and August.

Hardiness Map