They usually grow along the shoreline but may grow in water 3 to 4 feet deep. The leaves are ribbonlike, flat, and about 1 inch wide.
Flowers are in a dense, cylinder-shaped spike that often resembles a cigar.
Flowers are on stalks that are usually taller than the leaves. They are spread by creeping rootstalks and seeds. You can control cattails with the treatments listed. Be sure to read the label and follow instructions. Mix and spray evenly over plants.