Typha domingensis aka Narrow Leaf Cumbungi

Typha domingensis is also known as southern cattail. It is part of the Typhaceae family. Its native range spans the tropics and subtropics. This wetland plant lives for more than one year. It grows in fresh and brackish marshes and pools. Brackish water holds some salt. It also grows on wet banks and shallow pond edges. North American records range from sea level to upland sites. The species has a wide range and no major threat. Useful Tropical Plants lists its status as Least Concern.

In gardens, plants reach about 10 feet [3 metres]. Reports give stem heights of 5–13 feet [1.5–4 metres]. The leafy stems do not branch. Rhizomes, or stems below ground, spread into large, dense stands. These stands can leave little room for other plants. Growth goes on all year where there is no frost. Each plant has both male and female flowers, held apart. Wind moves pollen from flower to flower. Plants on northern California's cold coast may not ripen fruit.

Grow this cattail in sun and rich, wet soil. Sources do not agree on whether it takes part shade. It suits bog gardens and shallow pond edges. It grows in water up to 6 inches [0.15 metres] deep. It can grow in sand, loam, or clay. Soil can be slightly acid to slightly alkaline. It can cope with moderate salt levels. PFAF lists USDA zones 5–12. Plants at rest may live through about −25°C. But frost can harm young growth. Raise plants from seed, or split them in spring.

Its roots help keep wet banks from washing away. People plant it to restore wetlands and give wildlife homes. In reed beds, it removes pollutants from water and soil. People use leaves and stems for thatch and woven goods. They also use them to keep heat in. The plant yields fuel and other biomass, too. But its spread poses a serious problem to manage. It can invade canals, ditches, reservoirs, fields, and farm ponds. Dense stands may leave fewer kinds of wetland plants. Garden plantings need root checks, except in very large spaces.

People use rhizomes, shoots, seeds, and pollen as food. They eat the starchy rhizomes raw or cooked. Dried rhizomes make flour for baking or to thicken soups. Their high fibre can make them hard to prepare. PFAF records long-held uses of several parts as medicine. These parts include leaves, pollen, rootstock, and seed down. It warns against pollen as medicine during pregnancy. Both sources report no known hazards. This does not prove that all uses are safe.