Typha latifolia

Typha latifolia is a plant native throughout the southeast, found primarily in wetland habitats. It grows in full sun to part shade, and in soils that are wet to moist. It has tall grass-like leaves that die back in the winter, and typically grows five feet or higher. It has unique elongate clusters of flowers that resemble a cat’s tails (hence the common name Cattail). Small mammals eat the rhizomes of this plant, and birds use them for nesting material. Typha latifolia can be a vigorous spreader, so it is best placed in areas where it is safe to establish a colony. It is a great plant for wetland mitigation projects.