Cattails aid in erosion control

Cattails, typha angustifolia (narrow leaf) or typha latifolia (broad leaf), have a distinct look at the edge of ponds and are wetland plants.

The flower head is a spike and shaped like a long cylinder. The leaves are flat blades that are able to reach 10 feet. Cattails can grow vigorously, through the rhizome root system and by the wind when the flower heads go to seed.

Native Americans used the entire plant – using waterproof qualities of the leaf and as a food source. All parts of the cattail plant are edible. The rootstock can be roasted or dried and ground into a powdery flour.

Cattails aid in erosion control by helping to protect the banks of a pond; they intercept and reduce the force of small waves and wind on a shore. They also provide wildlife habitat, shelter to birds, and food and cover for fish and insects.

To keep cattails under control, hand removal, cutting, and/or dredging may be needed. Controlling cattails takes multiple practices, including aquatic herbicides. Aquatic herbicides can only be used in ponds. In New York state, all aquatic chemical treatments require a NYS Department of Environmental Conservation permit.

For further information, view the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County website at cceoneida.com or call our horticulture hotline on Wednesday or Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. to noon at 315-736-3394.

Terri Harrison, Master Gardener Volunteer, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County.