Cattail Plant

Cattail Plant (Typha latifolia)

Cattail Plant: Typha latifolia, or the common cattail plant, might be the most easily recognized water-loving species in the United States. The species is agreeable, a native of North America, South America, Europe, and Africa. It will thrive in almost all USDA plant hardiness zones in either full sunshine or filtered sun.

Most people know the Cattail Plant for its presence in swamps, marshes, ponds, and riverbanks throughout the country. They are more than majestic--they are an essential contributor to their ecosystems. 

The cattail plant provides coverage for fish, birds, and frogs against predators like birds and raccoons. This tall foliage--and the shadowing it creates on the water--gives them a safe place to hunt for their meals, lay their eggs, and raise their young. 

Similarly, gardeners with a water garden or koi pond on their property can use the cattail plant for the same benefits. This plant is a water feature favorite for TN Nursery staff and customers. 

Other Common Names for Typha latifolia

Most call this species cattails, but here are a few other (but less common) nicknames you might hear: 

• Broadleaf Cattail
• Bulrush
• Cat-O'-Nine-Tails
• Common Cattail 

Cattail Plants Provide Classic Beauty to a Water Garden or Koi Pond 

Typha latifolia has a grassy appearance--tall, emerald, green, lance-shaped leaves with a narrow, well-defined tip. They can measure up to eight feet tall, with an above-water presence of around three to four feet. 

The plant develops tall, prominent spikes that display the most familiar feature that makes this plant so famous--its brown or copper-toned cylindrical flower, a water garden classic. 

The cattail plant spreads through a vigorous underground root system. Many gardeners who want just a few for ornamental use will plant them in containers, then submerge them in about three feet of water to control the growth.

Order Your Cattail Plant From TN Nursery Today

TN Nursery is a plant industry leader, sending only the healthiest plants to our valued customers. You can order today with confidence in our decades of knowledge and experience.