Typha

( TYE - fuh )

At-A-Glance Information

Species in this genus are commonly referred to as Cattails or Punks, and are found in a variety of wetland habitats distributed over a wide area in the Northern Hemisphere. They form rhizomatous roots, which are edible, though some species are known to accumulate toxins in their roots and must first be processed before being consumed. 

Typha Species and Varietals

The genus Typha is the type genus member of the plant family Typhaceae, and includes 30 species. The genus name is derived from the diminutive of the Spanish word vaina (meaning 'sheath' or 'pod'). The growing zones for these plants vary depending on the species; for more information, consult the information below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Typha angustifolia (Lesser Bulrush, Narrowleaf Cattail)
Native to Eurasia and Northwestern Africa, this species has a wide distribution in North America, as well. These plants reach up to just under 7 feet tall and produce slender green leaves. Flowering stems reach up to 5 feet tall, and flower in June and July. Several parts of these plants are edible, including sprouts, leaf bases, green bloom spikes, ripe pollen, roots, and the inner stalk.

Typha latifolia (Broadleaf Cattail, Cat-tail, Cattail Reed, Great Reedmace, Cooper's Reed, Cumbungi)
This species reaches between 5 and 10 feet tall when mature, and produces broad green leaves. Flowers appear in dense clusters on top of main stems, male flowers above, and female flowers below. Flowering occurs in June and July. These plants have many edible parts.

Typha minima (Dwarf Bulrush, Miniature Cattail, Least Bulrush)
​This species represents the smallest Cattails in the genus, reaching up to 31 inches tall at maturity. Leaves are green and linear. These plants prefer being in full sun in a space that has stagnant or slow-moving water. 

Caring for Typha


Harvesting Typha Plants

Propagation

Bixia orellana seed pods are bright red.
When seeds are mature, seed pods will open.

Problems and Pests

Typha plants are typically pest and disease free. For more information on common garden problems, including how to correct them, see the following links.
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Gallery

The blooming season of this plant (February–March) is celebrated with the Mustard Festival, a series of festivities in the wine country of California (Napa and Sonoma Counties).[13]

Videos

All about Lipstick Trees.
How to care for a Lipstick Tree in the garden.

Resources

Wikipedia: Typha
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