What Plant is All Around Water in Michigan?

Michigan is known for its abundant water resources, including the Great Lakes and numerous inland lakes, rivers, and streams. With so much water present, it's no surprise that there are many plant species that thrive in these wet environments. One plant that is particularly common around water in Michigan is the cattail.

The Cattail Plant

The cattail, or Typha, is a genus of plants that includes approximately 30 species. These plants are found in wetlands throughout the world and are known for their characteristic brown, cigar-shaped seed heads. In Michigan, the most common species of cattail is the narrow-leaved cattail (Typha angustifolia), although the broad-leaved cattail (Typha latifolia) is also present in some areas.

Habitat and Distribution

Cattails grow in shallow water and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, making them well-suited to the wetlands and shores of Michigan's waterways. They can be found in marshes, swamps, bogs, and along the edges of lakes and rivers. The narrow-leaved cattail is more common in deep water, while the broad-leaved cattail prefers shallower water.

Characteristics

Cattails are tall, perennial plants that can grow up to 10 feet tall. They have long, narrow leaves that grow up from the base of the plant and form a dense clump. The leaves are typically between 3 and 10 feet long and are flat or slightly concave. The stem of the plant is thick and sturdy, providing support for the seed head, which rises above the leaves in the summer and fall.

The seed head of the cattail is perhaps its most iconic feature. These cylindrical structures are composed of many tiny flowers tightly packed together. In the fall, the seed head turns brown and releases thousands of fluffy seeds that are dispersed by the wind. This unique seed dispersal method is what allows the cattail to spread and colonize new areas.

Uses of Cattails

Cattails have been used by humans for thousands of years, and have many practical and cultural uses. The Native American Ojibwe tribe, for example, used cattail leaves to make mats, baskets, and other woven items. The tender roots of the plant were also used as food, and the fluffy seed heads were used for insulation and bedding material.

Today, cattails are still used in many ways. They are a popular ornamental plant in water gardens and ponds, and their tall, dramatic form can add visual interest to a landscape. They are also still used for weaving and crafting, and are occasionally harvested for food or medicinal purposes.

The Importance of Cattails in Wetland Ecosystems

Cattails are an important species in wetland ecosystems, providing habitat and food for many animals. The dense clumps of leaves provide cover for small fish and invertebrates, while the seed heads are an important food source for many bird species. Wetlands containing cattails also play an important role in filtering pollutants from runoff water and helping to prevent erosion and flooding.

In Conclusion...

The cattail is a fascinating and useful plant that is found all around water in Michigan. From its iconic seed head to its many practical and cultural uses, this plant is an important part of wetland ecosystems and human history. Next time you're near a lake or river in Michigan, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and importance of this common plant!