The cattail (genus Typha) is also popularly known as the lamp cleaner or chimney sweep due to its striking appearance with the characteristic, two-part inflorescences. These are dried in many regions and used as autumn decorations and in dry arrangements.
What is a cattail and what properties does it have?
Bulrushes are perennial, herbaceous aquatic plants from the cattail family. They occur worldwide and are characterized by their cylindrical inflorescences and upright leaves. Flowering time is between May and August and they are well suited for water purification in garden ponds.
Limiting the growth of cattails
In the muddy soil of a riparian zone or other swampy location, the rhizomes of the cattail spread rapidly within a few years. That's why the cattails, which like reeds are often planted on the edges of ponds, should, if possible, be housed in special plant baskets (€8.00 on Amazon), which can prevent the displacement of other plant species and uncontrolled spread. In order to limit further spread through self-sowing, you have to cut off the flask-like inflorescences in good time before the seeds ripen. Please note, however, that pruning above ground does not hinder the growth of the cattail. In order to push back overgrown populations, the rhizomes have to be cleared in the muddy ground, which requires some strength and the right tools.
The use of cattails
In the past, the inflorescences of the cattail were actually used as lamp cleaners, in keeping with the popular name. Nowadays, the cattail is primarily valued for its water-clarifying effect, as the highly nutrient-consuming lamp cleaner literally removes the “breeding ground” from any algae growth. The cattail is well known as a decorative component in arrangements, but what is less well known is the possibility of consuming the starchy rhizomes in a similar way to potatoes.
The properties of the cattail at a glance:
- Plant family: Cattail family (Typhaceae)
- Distribution: worldwide from the tropics to temperate zones
- Growth form: herbaceous marsh and water plant with strong rhizomes, hardy and perennial
- Flower: the initially green, cylindrical bulbs slowly turn brown, the upper part of the bulb is the male flower part, below the female part
- Flowering time: depending on the species between May and August
- Seed/Fruit: Tiny seeds with hairy threads, spread by water and wind
- Leaf shape: sessile leaves, grow stiffly upright
- Location requirements: sunny and, if possible, permanently moist, prefers rather acidic soil
- Care: Pruning in spring promotes fresh growth
- Use: well suited for water purification in garden ponds, algae growth removes the nutrient base
Tip
In a garden biotope or swimming pond, cattails can promote siltation. In addition, the starchy rhizomes are a treat for voles, which is why foil ponds are sometimes susceptible to feeding holes from hungry rodents.
