Hare’s-tail cottongrass is a sedge that forms tight tussocks. Its stem is approximately half a meter high and there is a sheath at the base. The spike-like flower is located at the top of the stem and looks like a tuft due to its white hair.

Hare’s-tail cottongrass thrives on nutrient-poor pine bogs, fens and spruce mires. Its area of distribution covers northern and central Europe, Siberia, Canada and Alaska.

The fibres from the sheaths of Hare’s-tail cottongrass can be used in making textiles. The plant can also be used in oil spill control because its absorbency rises above synthetic spill control cloths. At one time Hare’s-tail cottongrass was used to fill pillows and quilts.

Hare’s-tail cottongrass is a common peatland species and it requires no conservation measures to secure its occurrence.