Lesser bulrush
Typha angustifolia L.
Typha angustifolia is a perennial herbaceous plant in the genus Typha, native throughout most of Eurasia and locally in northwest Africa; it also occurs widely in North America, where its native status is disputed.
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Lesser bulrushLesser bulrush
Lesser bulrush
Lesser bulrush
Lesser bulrush
Lesser bulrush
Lesser bulrushLesser bulrushLesser bulrushOverview
Typha angustifolia is a perennial herbaceous plant in the genus Typha, native throughout most of Eurasia and locally in northwest Africa; it also occurs widely in North America, where its native status is disputed. It is an "obligate wetland" species that is found in fresh water or brackish locations. It is known in British English as lesser bulrush, and in North American English as narrowleaf cattail.
Updated by lebachungtdh@gmail.com · 10/15/2026
Life cycle
From seed to productRhizome planting
One- to two-year-old **rhizomes** are cut into 2–3-bud setts, treated against rot and planted where drainage is good.
Sprouting
The rhizome roots down and shoots push through the soil; the plant begins photosynthesising and storing reserves.
Growth & flowering
In season the plant opens **brown cattail-like flower spikes, June–August**, adding colour and nectar for insects.
New rhizomes & harvest
After a full growing season the plant retreats to its storage organ; **pollen gathered in summer, rhizomes in winter**.
Uses
- Stops bleeding (hemostatic).
- Invigorates blood and removes stasis.
- Promotes urination.
- Used for hemorrhage and bruises.
- Relieves pain and reduces swelling.
Habitat & conservation
Typha angustifolia is a perennial herbaceous plant in the genus Typha, native throughout most of Eurasia and locally in northwest Africa; it also occurs widely in North America, where its native status is disputed. It is an "obligate wetland" species that is found in fresh water or brackish locations.
Conservation
Lesser bulrush has not been assessed by the IUCN Red List (NE). As a medicinal plant, it benefits from sustainable collection and propagation to protect wild genetic resources.
References
- 1Wikipedia – Typha angustifolia — Wikipedia,
- 2Kew POWO – Typha angustifolia — Plants of the World Online (Kew),
- 3Wikidata – Q146572 — Wikidata,