Broadleaf Cattail    Typha latifolia

This common cattail can grow to a height of six feet or more.  A good plant for erosion control, its rhizome roots form dense horizontal mats that hold the soil in place and encourage silt build-up and shoreline expansion. Dense stands of this perennial provide shelter and nesting for songbirds and waterfowl. Plant the roots three to four inches deep in soil or mud. When planted in water, the roots need protection from grazing muskrats.

image credits: Betty Kistler