Sandbar Willow vs Common Cattail - TreeTime.ca

Sandbar Willow vs Common Cattail

Salix exigua

Typha latifolia

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Sandbar Willow
Common Cattail

Sandbar Willow is a deciduous species native to much of North America. This mid-sized, fast-growing shrub can be found in very wet areas, making it an ideal plan to use in a wet area with erosion risk.

Sandbar Willow has long, narrow green leaves, and its grassy narrow stems give it an attractive, bamboo-like appearance.

All willow are important to native pollinators each spring as they have higher amounts of pollen and nectar early each growing season when other food sources are scarce.

Cattail is found all across North America, growing next to water. Like other waterside plants, Cattail provides erosion control and forage for animals.

It is suitable for land reclamation. Cattail is able to tolerate cold weather and occasional flooding.

Sandbar Willow Quick Facts

Common Cattail Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 1a
Height: 4 m (13 ft)
Height: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: any
Moisture: wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: short
Suckering: medium
Suckering: medium


Foliage: thick, flat
Flowers: yellow and green
Seeds: located within the capsules on the catkins
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, NU, PE
Other Names: baco, bulrush, cat o nine tails, cossack asparagus, flag, reed mace, rush