TASSEL COTTONGRASS 



Eriophorum angustifolium Roth 



We had passed many seasons on the trail without meeting speci- 

 mens of the tassel cottongrass. This was not because it is rare, but 

 because its heads are spoiled completely by wind, snow, or rain, and 

 it is then easily passed unnoticed. But when in perfection, the plant 

 is most attractive. The heads are supported on tall stems, with the 

 dainty tassels pendent on slender threads from the cluster above them. 

 We finally discovered it in great quantities in a grassy swamp. 



Tassel cottongrass has a wide range, in regions of cold climate, 

 occurring from Maine to Newfoundland, Illinois, New Mexico, 

 Oregon, and Alaska. It also occurs in Europe and Asia. 



The sketch was made from specimens found at Pipestone Pass, 

 three days by trail north of Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada, at an alti- 

 tude of 7,000 feet. 



PLATE 312. 



