What's eating my typha angustifolia?

Narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia) faces the same main threats as common bulrush: bulrush wainscot moth borers are the most damaging pest, tunnelling through stems. Reed beetles skeletonise leaves, aphids attack new growth, and in North America muskrats graze rhizomes extensively in autumn and winter.

Larvae bore downward through stems causing wilting and internal rotting of individual shoots Remove and destroy bored stems by cutting below the waterline. Clear dead stems each winter to eliminate overwintering pupae.

Linear bleached scars on leaf surfaces; larvae attack underwater roots Tolerate light infestations. Thin congested stands to improve air circulation and reduce beetle habitat.

Colonies at stem bases and shoot tips; honeydew, sooty mould, weakened early growth Strong water jet; beneficial insects. Avoid spraying insecticides directly into pond water.

Rhizomes excavated and eaten in autumn; can clear large patches of established stands No reliable control in natural ponds. Plant densely to ensure stands recover. Wire baskets protect individual specimen plantings.