Typha latifolia

Typha latifolia, commonly known as broadleaf cattail, bulrush, common bulrush, common cattail, great reedmace, cooper's reed, or cumbungi, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the genus Typha. It is found as a native plant species in North and South America, Europe, Eurasia, and Africa.

Description

Typha latifolia can reach heights from 1.5 to 3 meters. The plant's leaves are alternate and mostly basal to a simple, jointless stem that eventually bears the flowering spikes. The rhizomes spread horizontally beneath the surface of muddy ground to form dense colonies. The plant's inflorescence is a dense, cylindrical spike up to 25 cm long and 2-4 cm thick.

Habitat and Distribution

Typha latifolia is found in a variety of climates, including tropical, subtropical, southern and northern temperate, humid coastal, and dry continental. It is found at elevations from sea level to 7500 feet. The plant prefers fresh water but can also grow in brackish marshes.

Uses

Typha latifolia has a wide variety of uses. The plant's leaves and stems can be used in basketry, the seed fluff can be used for stuffing, and the roots can be eaten. The plant is also used in many types of wetland restoration and wastewater treatment projects, due to its ability to absorb pollutants and improve water quality.

Ecology

Typha latifolia is often one of the first species to colonize areas of disturbed wetlands and is an important food source for many types of wildlife. However, it can also be a problematic invasive species in some regions, outcompeting other native plants and altering wetland ecosystems.

Cultivation

Typha latifolia is not typically grown as a garden plant, but it can be a useful species for naturalistic planting in wildlife gardens, bog gardens, and other wetland habitats.

See Also

• Typha
• Wetland
• Invasive species