Plant, Tree & Shrub Library

Other Names:  Bullrush, Reedmace

Description:

This variety forms a clump of narrow grassy leaves, producing upright stems of fat, round, brown cattail flowers during the summer, and will remain into winter; containerize in smaller ponds

Ornamental Features

Miniature Cattail has masses of beautiful spikes of brown catkins rising above the foliage from early to mid summer, which are most effective when planted in groupings. Its grassy leaves are dark green in color. The foliage often turns yellow in fall.

Landscape Attributes

Miniature Cattail is an herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its medium texture blends into the garden, but can always be balanced by a couple of finer or coarser plants for an effective composition.

This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and should be cut back in late fall in preparation for winter. It is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard, but is not particularly attractive to deer who tend to leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Invasive

Miniature Cattail is ideally suited for growing in a pond, water garden or patio water container, and is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Mass Planting
• General Garden Use
• Water Gardens
• Container Planting
• Bog Gardens

Planting & Growing

Miniature Cattail will grow to be about 24 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 24 inches. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen!

This plant should only be grown in full sunlight. As an aquatic plant, it requires a suitable water garden environment and will benefit from special planting and ongoing care practices; consult one of our in-store experts for further details and instructions. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America. It can be propagated by division.

Miniature Cattail is a fine choice for the water garden, but it is also a good selection for planting in outdoor pots and containers. With its upright habit of growth, it is best suited for use as a 'thriller' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination; plant it near the center of the pot, surrounded by smaller plants and those that spill over the edges. It is even sizeable enough that it can be grown alone in a suitable container. Note that when grown in outdoor pots and containers, aquatic plants like this one will require a special growing environment that meets their requirement for consistent moisture. Be aware that in our climate, most plants cannot be expected to survive the winter if left in containers outdoors, and this plant is no exception. Contact our experts for more information on how to protect it over the winter months.