Family:
TYPHACEAE
Typha spp.
Cumbungi
Other Names: Bulrush, Cat’s Tail, Reed-mace, Wonga, Miranda, Narrowleaf Cumbungi, Gumbung
Regional Subspecies:
T. domingensis, T. orientalis
HABIT:
Erect robust semi-aquatic perennial to 4 m high. Vigorous in summer.
HABITAT & SITE PREFERENCE:
Streams, swamps, lakes, and water-filled depressions in fresh or slightly brackish water up to 2 m deep. Salt tolerant. Prefer 300 to 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina region.
SEED COLLECTION & PROPAGATION:
Seed dispersed by wind and water. Each spike contains ~200,000 seeds. Propagate from seed or by division.
VALUES & USES:
Useful for extracting pollutants from water and reducing evaporation in swamps/lakes. Excellent habitat for waterfowl and frogs. Can become a weed in irrigation channels and shallow creeks. Control by cutting below waterline in autumn.