Southern cattail is a tall aquatic plant with long, sword-like leaves and distinctive brown flower spikes. It is notable for its role in wetland ecosystems.
Habitat
Found in freshwater marshes and along pond edges.
Diet
N/A
How common
Common
Not certain it is a southern cattail? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent southern cattail sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a southern cattail?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.
5,300+species
63national parks
50states