Common Cattail vs Swamp White Oak - TreeTime.ca

Common Cattail vs Swamp White Oak

Quercus bicolor

Typha latifolia

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

CUSTOM GROW

Swamp White Oak
Common Cattail

The Swamp White Oak is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to North America. It is commonly found in swamps, lowlands, floodplains, and near streams and lakes. The leaves are two-toned, green on top and silvery-white on the undersides, adding to the visual appeal of this popular shade tree.

In the fall, the Swamp White Oak produces acorns which are an important food source for wildlife. It also provides a habitat for the larvae of many butterfly and moth species, playing an important ecological role. Although its growth is slow in the first few years, once the roots are established, it can achieve faster annual growth.

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.

Swamp White Oak Quick Facts

Common Cattail Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 1a
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Height: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: short
Suckering: none
Suckering: medium

Toxicity: mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs

Foliage: thick, flat
Flowers: yellow and green
Nuts: acorns
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


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