Plant · GBIF taxon 5289423
broadleaf cattail
Typha latifoliaAlso known as Common Cattail, Broad-leaved Cattail
Broadleaf cattail is a tall wetland perennial with flat strap-like leaves and dense brown flower spikes. Male flowers occupy the upper spike directly above the thicker female section, usually without a gap.
wetland plantrhizomatousbrown flower spike
1 / 7—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Produces energy through photosynthesis and stores resources in spreading underwater rhizomes
Predators
- muskrats
- cattail moth larvae
- grazing mammals
ThreatsWetland drainage, pollution, altered water depth, and control of overly dense stands
HabitatsMarshes, pond margins, ditches, slow streams, and shallow freshwater wetlands
Life spanLong-lived perennial clones can persist and expand for many years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderPoales
- FamilyTyphaceae
- GenusTypha
- SpeciesTypha latifolia
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Dense stands can hide deep water and unstable mud; stay on firm ground.
Responsible observation
- Identify: Check for broad flat leaves and touching male and female flower sections.
- Protect: Avoid cutting stems or trampling wetland margins during nesting season.
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Ecosystem chain
Wetland Territory
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