Narrowleaf Cattail
typha angustifolia
Also known as: ["Common Cattail","Lesser Bulrush","Narrow-leaved Bulrush"]
Overview
A tall, aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial plant with distinctive brown, cylindrical flower spikes and long, narrow leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Typhales |
| Family: | Typhaceae |
| Genus: | Typha |
| Botanical Name: | Typha angustifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: Wetland edges, shallow water gardens, or boggy areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: Not necessary; natural ambient humidity is sufficient
- Drainage: Moderate to slow-draining; prefers consistently moist soil.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with high organic matter; tolerates clay and sandy soils if moist.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; remove old flower stalks after blooming.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light for outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist; water every 3–5 days during dry periods
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply to encourage root growth; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
Rich, moist, loamy soil; tolerates clay and silt
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid compacted soil; ensure consistent water availability.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–10; tolerates wide temperature ranges; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F) but can withstand heat and cold.
Monitor soil temperature; use frost cloth in cold snaps; water early to reduce heat stress.
Fertilizing
Rarely required; apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 months during growing season
Apply fertilizer before new growth emerges; water thoroughly after fertilizing; use a liquid fertilizer at half-strength for container-grown plants.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with a sharp knife.
- Plant divisions at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with partial shade; keep soil consistently moist.
Medium
Moist, loamy soil or water; can also be propagated in a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; rooting hormone may help with stem cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizome division can be done immediately; stem cuttings may take 4–6 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, gloves, trowel, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Divide mature clumps every 2–3 years; ensure each division has healthy roots and shoots; water regularly until established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back dead foliage at the base; trim spent flower stalks to encourage new growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune in dry conditions; dispose of pruned material properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot container-grown plants every 2–3 years to refresh soil and control spread.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water deeply to reach the root zone; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly to maintain consistently moist soil, especially during dry periods; reduce watering in winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to improve moisture retention; incorporate perlite for aeration in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or root rot in cold, waterlogged conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth; prolonged freezing may damage foliage; roots are generally hardy but require protection from frost heave.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; water demand increases significantly.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil nutrient levels; apply fertilizer in spring; avoid fertilizing dormant plants.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Typha is not heavy feeder; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTypha angustifolia is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicTypha angustifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicTypha angustifolia, commonly known as narrowleaf cattail, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used historically for food and medicinal purposes, with no significant toxic effects reported.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Typha angustifolia edible?
A: Yes, the young shoots, stems, and pollen are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked.
Q: Does Typha angustifolia grow well in water?
A: Yes, it thrives in wetland environments and can grow in shallow water or moist soil.
Q: Does Typha angustifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it provides habitat and food for various wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Typhaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | Keep soil consistently moist; |
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