Typha latifolia
Common Cattail
General
Found in marshes, swamps, and wet areas throughout North America, growing in water up to 1.5' deep. Common cattail is an important food source for wildlife and will also provide good cover. Common Cattail is often used in restoration projects and to improve water quality, as it will absorb heavy metals and other pollutants, and it is an aggressive colonizer. Most of the plant is edible for humans, but care should be taken when harvesting; if the water is contaminated, the plant may be full of pollutants and heavy metals.
Plant Description
Growing 4-8' tall, usually in dense clumps. The brown spike flowers grow from top of the central stem. Leaf blades are long and linear, simple and alternate. The brown spikes may persist well into winter.
Height (ft)
4-8'
Soil moisture
Moist to wet
Soil types
Rich loams, variable textures
Wetland indicator
OBL
Shade tolerance
Intermediate, Full sun to light shade, prefers sun
Bloom color
Brown
Bloom period
Spring
Drought tolerance
None
Salinity tolerance
Low
Range
Native and common throughout North America, from Alaska and south through Mexico. Introduced and invasive in Hawaii.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, the boiled roots and shoots were eaten as well as the wool down used as stuffing for mattresses and wraps for young children. The fruiting stalks have been used for weaving baskets, mats, in housing material and clothes. The pollen was also used ceremonially.