Graceful cattail (Typha laxmannii)

Graceful cattail

Graceful cattail (Typha laxmannii) gets its Latin name in honor of the Finnish-Swedish clergyman and botanist Erik Gustavovich Laxmann (1737-1796). This water plant is grown ornamentally in shallow water beside ponds and other water features, and attracts birds and other wildlife. This quick-spreading plant is classed as an invasive species in the US states of New Hampshire and Wisconsin.

Scientific classification

Species

Graceful cattail (Typha laxmannii)

Grasses, sedges and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

91 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

Brown, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Yellow, Brown

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Graceful cattail

Distribution Map

Graceful cattail is a plant native to a broad range stretching from Eastern Europe to East Asia, including the temperate and subtropical regions of these continents. It has been introduced to regions in Central and Western Europe, as well as to other temperate areas. Additionally, graceful cattail is cultivated, which may extend its presence beyond its natural and introduced ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Graceful cattail

Vertically aligned, sword-like leaves up to 5 feet (150 cm) tall.

Distinct yellowish male and greenish female flowers on single stalk with 2-inch (5 cm) gap.

Brownish, sausage-shaped fruiting spike about 4 inches (10 cm) long in early winter.

Basal, green leaves radiate around stout flower stalk.

Foliage transitions to yellow-brown color in autumn.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Graceful cattail

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Graceful cattail flourishes in marshy environments, preferring consistent moisture. Water twice weekly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Best cultivated outdoors, graceful cattail suits pondscapes and rain gardens, adapting to natural rainfall patterns typical of its wetland habitat.

Fertilize: For graceful cattail, use a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer at 1/4 strength quarterly during growing seasons for optimal growth; reduce to biannual in dormancy. Water before applying to avoid root burn. Granular, slow-release types provide steady nutrients. Follow product instructions for safety and effectiveness.

Pruning: Graceful cattail has slender, reed-like foliage and cylindrical flower spikes. Prune in early to late spring by removing damaged stems for healthy growth, aesthetics, and air circulation. Clean cuts with sterilized tools help prevent infections and reduce disease risk.

Propagation: Graceful cattail is a resilient aquatic perennial found in wetlands. Successful propagation occurs through division during dormancy, ensuring each segment contains roots and shoots. High soil moisture is crucial for new plant establishment, and regular post-division monitoring enhances survival rates.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free