An iconic wetland plant that requires little maintenance.
Cattails also provide a valuable habitat for wetland birds and other wildlife, including red-winged blackbirds and dragonflies.
The plants typically clump together in large numbers, spreading via rhizomatous roots to form dense colonies.
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Below, you’ll find information on the specific jot down of care this popular aquatic plant requires.
Soil and Water
The most essential element to successfully growing cattail lies in its planting location.
This aquatic perennial should be planted in loamy soil that is rich with organic matter.
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Avoid cutting the stalks of any new shoots, unless you’re aiming to slow the plant’s spread.
Pests and Problems
In general, cattail has very few problems with common pests or diseases.
The first, and most common, method is via division.
Because cattail is a rhizomatous plant, its knobby roots make it very easy to divide and propagate.
Try these excellent planting companions.
Sweet Flag
Sweet flagis a low-maintenance, grass-like perennial hardy in zones 4 through 10.
Credit:Matthew Benson
Sweet flag grows best in moist soil and standing water, making it a natural pairing to cattail.
The tube-shaped leaves beckon in insects, which are then eaten by the plant.
Plants cut below the waterline will often establish themselves in smaller numbers the following year.
