Common Name: Common Cattail, Broadleaf Cattail

Full to part sun; wet moisture level; tolerant of a range of soils from gravel to clay but rarely found on heavy clay; pH adaptable. 4-8 feet height, blooms in summer, minute yellow (male) and green (female) flowers, spreads aggressively by creeping rhizomes to form dense colonies and may self seed.

Germination Code: C(30)

Native Region: Statewide

This plant is the classic wetland plant found on boggy ground and water edges along lakes, ponds and rivers. Grows in water up to 12 inches deep. Fast-developing plant whose roots go deep and are hard to eradicate once established. Very easy to grow. Can be weedy or invasive. Used to help control soil erosion problems around water areas but has a tendency to take over wetlands.  If used in a home setting, it is easier to control in a small pond or container. Provides food and cover for waterfowl as well as hiding places for fish and other aquatic life. Favorite habitat for Red-wing Blackbirds and other marsh birds.