Care of the aquatic plant Typha latifolia or Common cattail |
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The genus Typha, family Typhaceae, comprises 30 species of perennial herbaceous plants native to the Northern Hemisphere. Some species are: Typha latifolia, Typha laxmannii, Typha minima, Typha domingensis, Typha angustifolia. Common names: Common cattail, Common bulrush, Great reedmace, Cooper's reed. This species is native to North and South America, Eurasia, and Africa They are rhizomatous plants with long linear leaves and long flower stalks that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The flowers are very small, do not have petals and appear in characteristic brown spikes. They bloom in summer. Common cattail is used in garden ponds but its expansion must be watched because it can become invasive; it's best to build a wall around it so that the rhizomes do not spread. Typha latifolia needs full sun or light shade exposure. The average annual temperature should be 15-25 ºC (59-77 ºF). Plant in very moist soil or under water, preferably in spring or fall. If Common bulrush grows in a pond, it's advisable to empty it every 3 years to replace nutrients in the substrate. Fertilize with manure and mineral fertilizer at the time of planting. Typha latifolia is a plant resistant to pests and diseases. Common cattail is propagated by division of rhizome in spring; plant 20 cm (7.87") deep. |
Images of the aquatic plant Typha latifolia or Common cattail |
 Typha latifolia  Typha latifolia  Typha latifolia |