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Common CatbrierFenwick-Hollowell Wetlands Trail

Common catbrier (Smilax rotundifolia)

Description

The Common cattail is a broadleaf grass-like plant with a distinctive brown rod wrapped around the top of its stem. They are often found in swamps and marshes in the transition from spring to summer.
Common catbrier

Gardening Tips

Care Known Problems How to Harvest Mature Size Notes/Uses
Cattail species need to grow and retain large amounts of water to grow, but are tolerant to both acidic and alkaline levels of pH. Partial shade is recommended Can overpopulate and take over wetlands quickly if left unsupervised, so it is recommended to grow cattails in smaller bodies of water to ensure a safe population The stalks of the Common cattail can be broken off in the spring to cook and eat, and the seeds of the plant can be pulled off to use as stuffing for pillows Height: an average of 7 feet Cattails remove minerals from the water and sediments they grow in. The stalks can also be eaten and the seeds can be used as stuffing

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