Quick facts
Narrow-leaf cattail is an unlisted non-native species. These species have no restrictions on sale, purchase, or possession, but they may not be introduced into a free-living state without MN DNR approval and thorough evaluation.
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Narrow-leaf cattails are found in disturbed native wetland communities.
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They can develop large monocultures, outcompete native vegetation and will crossbreed with native, broad-leaf cattail.
- Narrow-leaf cattails should be reported.
See the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recommendations for reporting invasive species.
How to identify narrow-leaf cattails
- Narrow-leaf cattails (Typha angustifolia) is a perennial.
- Can reach heights of four to twelve feet.
- Brown cylindrical flowering heads on slender green stocks.
- Easily confused with native broad-leaf cattails (Typha latifolia).
Leaves
- Dark green, sword-like leaves.
- Typically between one fourth to one half inches wide.
- Originate from the base of horizontal stems.
Flowers
- Velvety brown, cigar-shaped spikes.
- two to six inches long.
- Gap between the lower (female) and upper (male) flower of one inch or more.
- Sheds pollen in single grains.
Seeds
- Stored within the spike, each plant can produce and disperse up to 250,000 seeds.
- Seeds are wind-dispersed and can remain viable for 50–100 years.
Roots
- Can reproduce vegetatively through rhizomes.
- Rhizomes in cattail colonies can become intertwined and form thick mats.
Reviewed in 2019